Brazil Holds Runoff Vote Between Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro

Brazilian citizens began voting on Sunday in a presidential runoff that pits incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva against Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro and an ally of U.S. President Donald Trump. The two candidates each need more than 50 percent of the vote to win the presidency in January.

Polling data released before the election showed a close contest, and turnout was lower than expected, with more than 33 million of the roughly 160 million eligible voters not casting a ballot despite compulsory voting laws.

Lula, who previously served as president from 2003 to 2010, emphasized policies aimed at reducing the cost of living and improving security, while Bolsonaro campaigned on a tough-on-crime platform and promised to lower food prices. Both candidates have faced investigations involving family members and associates; Bolsonaro is under inquiry for alleged corruption and money-laundering, and Lula’s earlier convictions were later annulled.

"The time of real change has arrived," Bolsonaro told journalists, adding that Brazil cannot continue on its current trajectory.

"It is a lot of generosity, a lot of care, a lot of love. I will be forever grateful," Lula said after voting in São Bernardo do Campo.

The runoff follows a first-round result in which Bolsonaro led Lula by more than 2.2 million votes. Analysts note that the outcome could influence Brazil’s foreign policy direction, particularly regarding relations with the United States and regional economic initiatives.

Voting is conducted electronically, and results are typically available within hours after polling stations close at 5 p.m. Brasília time.