Brazil's Runoff: Minas Gerais Battleground, Lula's Prison Remarks, and Economic Shifts

Brazil's presidential runoff dominated the week, with Minas Gerais emerging as a decisive battleground where candidate Flávio Bolsonaro holds an advantage over Lula. Both campaigns intensified their efforts in the state, which has historically voted for the national winner. The PT campaign escalated its digital attacks against Bolsonaro, using emotionally charged messages on social programs and labor rights. Political analysts noted this strategy may mobilize the base but could increase rejection among independent voters, while experts said a decisive "silver bullet" event is unlikely in the polarized race. Lula reignited debate by defending temporary prison leave for rehabilitation, while economic data showed Brazil lost its net creditor status after 19 years. The government also created a new secretariat for critical minerals, and a university honored former President Dilma Rousseff.