Flávio Bolsonaro, candidate for the PL party, cast his ballot at 8:20 AM at the Barão Homem de Mello School in Vila Isabel, Rio de Janeiro. He was among the first to vote, following the opening of the polls. The senator, known for his political activism, urged voters to participate in the election, emphasizing the importance of democratic engagement.
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the PT candidate, also voted at an early hour, expressing gratitude for the public’s support. He referred to the electorate as the "army of democracy," highlighting the significance of the vote in shaping Brazil’s future. Both candidates are expected to monitor the vote count closely as results come in.
The election, held on October 25, 2026, is the most competitive in Brazil’s history, with a tight race between Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro. A recent Atlas poll showed Flávio leading with 50.8% of valid votes, while Lula remained strong in key regions. Early results from overseas voting, including in New Zealand, indicated a strong lead for Lula, with 80.54% of valid votes.
This election follows months of intense political campaigning, with both candidates drawing large crowds and engaging in heated debates. The outcome will determine the direction of Brazil’s political landscape for years to come.
