Lula defeats Bolsonaro in Brazil's presidential runoff election

Incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has won Brazil's presidential runoff election, defeating challenger Flávio Bolsonaro with 51.75 percent of the vote to secure a fourth term. The victory in Latin America's largest economy was seen as a pivotal decision for the region. Bolsonaro, son of former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, received 48.25 percent of the vote in the tight race. Voting was extended by two hours due to alleged public transport disruptions, which delayed the count. Both candidates had requested extensions, citing different issues. Lula's win was considered surprising after he trailed in the first round and breaks a wave of right-wing successes in Latin America. High voter turnout reportedly helped him, though he now faces a conservative Congress and economic challenges including high interest rates and over 82 percent public debt.