Wow!

If you ever doubted the incredible power that economic forces can wield, consider the absurdity of a politician in a functioning democracy suggesting that the health of the economy is more important than say, 100,000 of its own citizens' lives..  Earlier today, the Trump administration extended the social distancing guidelines until April 30 ending any speculation that his administration would in fact choose that path of absurdity.  Make no mistake about it, the opportunity cost on the economy from this decision is massive and indicates how seriously the president is taking the advice of his health care experts becasue it is clear that the president wants it opened as soon as possible. 

Instead, it appears that Jair Bolsonaro is rolling the dice alone by choosing economy over people. 

Yes, he really does seem to be be gambling that the disease is over-hyped.  The gall of it is tremendous when you actually consider the stakes. We already know he is Bolsanaro is willing to trade off some lives for economic performance.  How far is he willing to go?  If cases rise in Brazil, will he change his tune?  Will it be too late?  

In memory of the recently deceased Kenny Rogers and his legendary song The Gambler, let Mr. Bolsanaro consider the sage advice offered up in the song...

YOU GOT TO KNOW WHEN TO HOLD 'EM

KNOW WHEN TO FOLD 'EM

KNOW WHEN TO WALK AWAY

AND KNOW WHEN TO RUN

YOU NEVER COUNT YOUR MONEY

WHEN YOUR SITTN' AT THE TABLE

THEY'LL BE TIME ENOUGH FOR COUNTIN'

WHEN THE DEALIN'S DONE

Well, he's playing his hand.  I just can't see him counting any "money" when this is all said and done.