Lula slightly outperforms Bolsonaro as Brazil’s new president Head-to-head in Brazil: Lula and Bolsonaro equal

Right-wing incumbent Jair Bolsonaro received 49.16 percent. According to the authorities, it was mathematically impossible to reverse the result.

Former trade unionist Lula ruled Latin America’s largest country, with a population of 210 million, from early 2003 to late 2010. He is Brazil’s first democratically elected president for a third term. In addition to the head of state, governors were also elected on Sunday in a dozen states.

The atmosphere was very tense given the large differences and the population was very divided. The already fierce election campaign had become increasingly dirty in the final sprint. Brazilians have been inundated with a deluge of misinformation, especially on social media and Whatsapp groups. The televised debates, in which Lula and Bolsonaro accused each other, seemed downright civilized.

Many of his followers associate Lula with Brazil’s golden age, when the economy boomed due to high commodity prices and the government lifted millions out of abject poverty through social programs. For his opponents, however, Lula is responsible for corruption and favoritism.

Violence was feared to break out after Lula’s election victory. Bolsonaro had repeatedly questioned the electoral system and indicated that he might not recognize the result. Since the relaxation of gun laws during his tenure, many of his supporters have armed themselves heavily. Some supporters of the incumbent party also blatantly called for a military coup. However, experts see insufficient support for this in society and the armed forces.

The election in Brazil is also of international importance. As a huge carbon reservoir, the Amazon plays an important role in the fight against global climate change. In addition, Brazil is a potentially important trading partner with its huge natural resources, high share of green energy and large agricultural economy. (con/sda/dpa)