Brazilians Vote in Presidential Election Pitting Lula Against Bolsonaro

Brazilians began voting Sunday in a high-stakes presidential election pitting incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva against Senator Flavio Bolsonaro.

The election is seen as a choice between the incumbent's left-wing platform and Bolsonaro's right-wing movement, aligned with former President Jair Bolsonaro and U.S. President Donald Trump. If no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, a runoff election is scheduled for October 25. Almost 159 million Brazilians are eligible to vote in this election, which has drawn international attention as it could determine whether Latin America's largest nation continues under left-wing rule or joins a regional swing to the right.

Both leading candidates have high rejection rates among voters. Lula, 80, is seeking a fourth term and has strengthened Brazil's ties with Beijing, while criticizing Washington. Bolsonaro, 45, has touted his proximity to the White House and campaigned on promises of change, including seeking amnesty for his father, Jair Bolsonaro, who is serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup.

The campaign has been marked by corruption scandals, economic anxiety, and accusations of U.S. meddling, with Lula warning of foreign interference and Trump having previously imposed tariffs on Brazilian exports. Both leading candidates skipped major TV debates, offering meager policy debate despite economic concerns.