Flavio Bolsonaro to face Lula in Brazil presidential runoff

Brazil’s electoral court in Brasília announced on Monday that Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, an ally of US President Donald Trump, will face veteran President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in a decisive runoff on October 25, after neither candidate secured the 50% majority needed to win in the first round.

Flavio Bolsonaro, 45, is the eldest son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently serving a 27-year prison sentence for plotting a coup after losing the 2022 election.

Flavio is a prominent figure in Brazil’s conservative right, serving as senator for Rio de Janeiro since 2019. He began his political career at age 21 and has maintained a legislative seat for four consecutive terms.

He is known for his expertise in campaign management, having played a key role in coordinating electoral and media campaigns for the right-wing “Bolsonarista” movement, especially during the 2022 presidential race.

Flavio is recognized for his conservative stances, supporting traditional family values, opposing abortion, backing tough-on-crime policies and easier gun ownership, as well as advocating for economic liberalism and reduced state intervention.

He has faced several legal investigations, most notably the “Rachadinha” case involving allegations of embezzling public funds. However, higher courts later dismissed these charges. He was also accused of money laundering, which he denied, calling the accusations politically motivated.

Flavio Bolsonaro represents the conservative right, military establishment, and agribusiness interests, while Lula da Silva stands for Brazil’s left, labor unions, and social development programs.

Bolsonaro received 47% of the vote in the first round, compared to Lula’s 45%, boosting his chances in the runoff and supporting Brazil’s stock market and currency, especially as the campaign focuses on living standards, corruption, and insecurity.