Brazilian public figure, social advocate, former First Lady (2019–2023)
Incumbent Lula faces far-right rival Bolsonaro in Brazil’s pivotal presidential election. Polls show a tight race with a potential runoff on Oct. 25. Both candidates frame the contest as a choice over democracy, sovereignty and regional influence as Latin America shifts politically.
Brazil's first round has not produced an outright winner, forcing a runoff between Lula da Silva and Flávio Bolsonaro on Oct. 25. Bolsonaro leads by a small margin as polls tighten; analysts warn polling may have missed late shifts. The election centers on crime, cost of living and US relations, with both candidates courting voters ahead of the critical vote.
Bolsonaro has left Brazil for the United States after the presidential runoff, while Brazil and allied states seek explanations over the travel and visa arrangements. Rubio states the U.S. was not directly involved, as Bolsonaro faces multiple investigations and his family navigates high-profile political fallout.