Senator Flávio Bolsonaro topped the first round of Brazil's presidential election, setting up an October 25 runoff against incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, secured the most votes in the first round of Brazil’s presidential election held on October 4. With over 99.9 percent of districts reporting, Flávio Bolsonaro received approximately 47 percent of the vote, while President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva followed with 45 percent. The two candidates will now face each other in a runoff election scheduled for October 25.

Election Results and Congressional Gains

Flávio Bolsonaro’s performance was strongest in Brazil’s southern states, while President Lula saw his highest support in the country’s north-east. Despite compulsory voting, 20 percent of eligible voters abstained from the first round. Conservative candidates aligned with the Bolsonaro family also saw success in legislative races; Michelle Bolsonaro won a senate seat, Carlos Bolsonaro secured a seat, and Jair Renan Bolsonaro was elected to the lower house of congress.

Political Context and International Influence

The campaign has centered on domestic issues including the economy, security, and corruption. Former president Jair Bolsonaro is currently under house arrest due to health issues and a court ruling that barred him from standing for office following a 27-year sentence related to an attempted coup. US President Donald Trump has characterized the legal proceedings against the former president as a “witch hunt,” while President Lula has maintained a stance of public opposition toward Trump.