Brazil's Runoff Election: Lula and Bolsonaro in Dead Heat

Brazil held the second round of its presidential election on Saturday, with incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva facing conservative challenger Flávio Bolsonaro in a tightly contested race. Thousands of supporters held final rallies across the country, highlighting deep national divisions. Flávio Bolsonaro, son of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro, unexpectedly led the first round with 47% of the vote, while Lula received 45%. Lula is seeking a fourth non-consecutive term, campaigning on social policies and national sovereignty amid pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. Polls show the candidates statistically tied at 50% each. In their final televised debate, they exchanged sharp attacks, with Lula questioning his opponent's experience and Flávio portraying Lula as a candidate of the past. The election is closely watched across Latin America, where several nations have shifted rightward since Trump's return to office.