“A CAMPANHA MOSTROU QUEM ESTAVA DE PALHAÇADA”:

O Debate Sobre a Participação de Humoristas e o Uso Do Humor nas Propagandas Eleitorais de Teresina em 2012

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the debate surrounding the presence of comedians in the electoral advertisements of mayoral candidates in Teresina during the 2012 municipal elections. The campaigns of Firmino Filho (PSDB) and Elmano Férrer (PTB) hired renowned comedians from the state of Piauí, sparking discussions among opponents and some members of the press, especially regarding issues such as: Was humor used to mask the lack of ideas and proposals, or was it merely a strategy to attract public attention? To this end, sources such as the newspapers O Dia and Meio Norte, available at the Public Archive of Piauí, are consulted. For theoretical and methodological grounding, authors such as Bernard Manin and Antônio Rubim are referenced to discuss the transformations in the electoral process within the so-called "public democracy," with an emphasis on the role of the media. Through the analysis of this experience, the aim is to contribute to the study of elections and the Brazilian democratic process.