Brazil Runoff Polls Deadlock at 50 Percent After Final Debate

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and senator Flavio Bolsonaro concluded their campaign with a policy-focused debate in Rio de Janeiro on Friday. The event occurred two days before the second round of presidential voting scheduled for Sunday.

The candidates concentrated their arguments on the economy, infrastructure, and regional development. Lula criticized his opponent’s plan to reduce public spending, comparing the approach to the policies of Argentine President Javier Milei. Bolsonaro responded by arguing that Lula is leaving the country bankrupt. "I'll have the same job here [as Milei in Argentina] because you're leaving the country bankrupt," Bolsonaro stated.

Bolsonaro accused the incumbent of allowing organized crime to expand and failing to control the cost of living. Lula countered with personal attacks, noting that his rival does not know what hunger is. The 80-year-old president also questioned Bolsonaro's experience, declaring, "He doesn't know Brazil." Bolsonaro maintained that he is a capable candidate who represents change.

The debate on TV Globo was more diplomatic than the first meeting between the candidates on Sunday. However, tense moments still occurred when Bolsonaro used the nickname "Nine Fingers" for Lula. The term refers to an accident Lula suffered while working as a metalworker. Lula demanded an apology, which Bolsonaro provided. Lula then called Bolsonaro a vigilante, referencing allegations of ties to paramilitary groups in Rio de Janeiro. Bolsonaro said he would classify such groups as narcoterrorists.

A third exchange involved the mother of a five-year-old killed in a shootout that included a police officer whose lawyer was Bolsonaro. The candidate stated that he does not believe his client was guilty.

The race has tightened considerably since the first round on October 4, when Bolsonaro finished first with 47 percent of the vote compared to Lula's 45 percent. A Datafolha survey published on Thursday showed the candidates level at 50 percent each. This result erased the four-point lead Bolsonaro held in polls released two weeks earlier.

Both candidates are expected to join supporters on the streets of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo for their final campaign push before Sunday's vote.