Brazil’s 2026 presidential election
International Politics · Active story · Election runoff approaching
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The big picture
Brazil's presidential election has reached a two-person runoff between incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former president Jair Bolsonaro. The first round on October 4 left Bolsonaro ahead, with about 47% of valid votes to Lula's 45%, but neither won a majority. Voters return on October 25 to decide the presidency.
The contest offers different approaches to household costs, welfare and security. Lula defends minimum-wage increases and efforts to reduce hunger; Bolsonaro challenges the government's record on prices and public safety. Their final debate also included corruption accusations, which should be distinguished from established findings. The narrower second round gives voters who backed other candidates a new choice.
Where things stand
As of October 24, the runoff remains undecided. Recent polls have put the candidates roughly even, despite Bolsonaro’s first-round lead. The final televised debate took place October 23, and radio and television campaign advertising stopped the following day. Voting is scheduled for October 25.
Key facts
- The Bolsonaro on this ballot is Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, not his father, former president Jair Bolsonaro.
- Lula is seeking a fourth presidential term after returning to office following the 2022 election.
- First-round vote shares describe votes already cast; runoff polls describe estimates ahead of a separate election.
How we got here
Bolsonaro leads the first round, but neither leading candidate wins a majority. A runoff is required.
The candidates debate living costs, welfare, security and corruption allegations on Globo.
Radio and television campaign advertising ends before the runoff.
What happens next
- : Brazilians vote in the presidential runoff. Results will determine which candidate wins; polls are not the outcome.