Brazilians Vote in Tight Presidential Race Between Lula and Bolsonaro’s Son
SAO PAULO — Millions of Brazilians cast ballots on Sunday in the first round of a presidential election pitting 80-year-old incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, seeking a fourth non-consecutive term, against 45-year-old Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of his right-wing predecessor.
More than 158 million voters were eligible in the largest election in Brazil’s history, choosing a president and vice president alongside governors, senators and federal and state deputies. Polls were open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Brasília time, with votes cast on the country’s electronic voting system, which typically delivers results within hours.
Lula of the Workers’ Party has campaigned on expanding social assistance, narrowing economic inequality and protecting the Amazon rainforest. Bolsonaro of the Liberal Party has promised fiscal discipline, deregulation and tougher law enforcement, while embracing his father’s conservative legacy and signaling affinity with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Final polls published Saturday pointed to a competitive first round with no clear winner. Datafolha put Lula at 45 percent of valid votes to Bolsonaro’s 42; Quaest had them at 46 and 45; CNT/MDA showed Lula at 47.8 percent against 42.1. Under Brazilian law, if no candidate wins more than half of valid votes, the top two advance to a runoff on Oct. 25 — and simulated second rounds show the pair in a statistical tie.
The campaign unfolded against voter anxiety over the cost of living and sharp debate over Brazil’s position between major partners including the United States and China. Diplomats and analysts are watching for the outcome’s effects on South American politics, global trade and international climate commitments tied to the Amazon.
Twelve presidential tickets were approved for the ballot, though polling consistently showed a two-person race. Other candidates, including Renan Santos and Augusto Cury, registered in the low single digits.
Campaigning officially ended ahead of Sunday’s vote under electoral rules restricting political activity on election day. A runoff, if needed, would be held Oct. 25.
