Son of convicted former Brazilian president leads in head of state election

Son of convicted ex-president of Brazil takes the lead in presidential election

The first round of the presidential election, held on October 4, has concluded in Brazil. Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of convicted former president Jair Bolsonaro, received 47.03% of the vote and took first place. Incumbent head of state Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva garnered 45.16%.

According to Brazil's Superior Electoral Court (TSE), 56.1 million people voted for the 45-year-old senator from the Liberal Party. Lula da Silva, representing the Workers' Party, received 53.8 million votes.

Since neither candidate cleared the 50% vote threshold, the winner will be determined in a second round. It will take place on October 25.

Flávio Bolsonaro is running for president for the first time. Previously, he was a member of the Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro, and since 2018, he has represented the state in the federal Senate.

His candidacy was put forward in late 2025 by his father, Jair Bolsonaro. The former president was unable to participate in the election after being convicted and barred from holding public office.

Lula da Silva has held the presidency since 2023. Prior to this, he had already led Brazil for two terms, from 2003 to 2010.

At polling stations abroad, Lula received more votes in 44 countries, including China and Australia. Bolsonaro led in 13 countries.

In parallel with the election of the president and vice president on October 4, Brazilians elected members of the National Congress, governors, and members of regional legislative assemblies.