Brazilian presidential election: incumbent Lula and Bolsonaro's eldest son Flavio go to run-off

Presidential elections were held in Brazil on the 4th to coincide with the expiration of the term of office. Leftist President Lula (80), who is seeking his fourth term in total, and right-wing senator Flavio Bolsonaro (45), the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, advanced to the run-off on the 25th.

Left-wing incumbent or right-wing former president's eldest son: Brazilian presidential election held on the 4th

The election was contested by 12 candidates. With a vote count of 99.99%, Flavio received 47.03% and Lula 45.16%. To be elected, it was necessary to receive a majority of valid votes.

According to Brazilian media, the difference in vote percentage between the top two candidates is the smallest since the return to civilian rule in 1985. This is the seventh consecutive time that the presidential election has been postponed to a run-off.

Flavio, who has advocated harsher punishments for crimes and stronger crackdowns, and advocated a "small government" policy that included cutting spending, said after the vote count, "We have gained confidence in change. I am very happy." ``The end of the era of the Workers' Party (founded by Mr. Lula) has been declared,'' he said, expressing confidence in his victory in the run-off.

Mr. Lula, who called for rectifying inequality and expanding welfare, acknowledged in his speech that the results were unexpected, but said, ``I am good at one-on-one situations.'' He announced his intention to focus on expanding his support base in preparation for re-election.