Brazil Runoff Election: Lula Faces Bolsonaro in Tight Race

Polling stations are open in Brazil for a runoff election between leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and right-wing challenger Flávio Bolsonaro, with the race expected to be very close. Bolsonaro, son of jailed former President Jair Bolsonaro, voted in Rio de Janeiro, claiming Brazil needs "real change." In the first round on October 4, Lula received just over 45 percent of votes while Bolsonaro got 47 percent, forcing the second round as neither surpassed 50 percent. The candidates hold opposing views on issues including relations with the US, climate change, and social welfare. Bolsonaro argued that Brazil cannot endure four more years under the current administration, saying "everyone's lives have gotten worse." The election outcome will determine whether the country continues with Lula's leftist policies or returns to a right-wing government.