Brazil votes in a presidential run-off on 25 October between incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and senator Flávio Bolsonaro. Lula, 80, is seeking a fourth non-consecutive term. His 45-year-old challenger is the son of former president Jair Bolsonaro.
Two competing promises of change
Flávio Bolsonaro led the first round on 4 October and is campaigning on tougher action against organised crime, lower taxes and reduced public spending. Lula is trying to mobilise voters who stayed home in the first round, presenting his candidacy as a defence of democracy and national sovereignty.
A campaign with an international dimension
The contest also carries consequences for Brazil’s relationship with the United States. Lula has resisted the idea that Brazil belongs in Washington’s sphere of influence. Bolsonaro argues that closer cooperation with the United States can help the state confront powerful criminal organisations.
The family name is part of the contest
Jair Bolsonaro is serving a 27-year sentence over a coup plot following his 2022 election defeat, under house arrest because of ill health. His son has pledged to seek his release. The family’s political legacy therefore remains central even though the former president is not the candidate on today’s ballot.
No result yet
This is a preview of voting day. Campaign momentum and the first-round ranking do not establish the outcome of the run-off. The result depends on the ballots cast and counted today.
