Lula Trails Flávio Bolsonaro in First Round, Faces October 25 Runoff
Brazil's presidential election heads to an October 25 runoff after Flávio Bolsonaro, son of jailed former president Jair Bolsonaro, led the first round with 47% to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's 45%. Lula, 80 and seeking a fourth term, faces an uphill battle as right-wing third-party votes consolidate behind Bolsonaro. Analysts cite Lula's age, establishment status, corruption perceptions, and the growing evangelical vote, despite economic gains including a 40% drop in extreme poverty. Both candidates have high negatives, and Lula's path depends on turning out non-voters.
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