The Bolsonaro Inheritance
Nepotism could tank the far right’s chances in Brazil.
Brazil formally launched its presidential election on Sunday. Flávio Bolsonaro, son of incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro, made his formal campaign debut in Rio de Janeiro. Wearing a bulletproof vest under a green-and-yellow shirt, he vowed "My party is Brazil." Bolsonaro's wife and running mate Alfredo Gaspar attended the rally, though Gaspar is under scrutiny for mishandling public funds and a minor sexual assault allegation.
Gaspar's selection came after months of negotiations that ultimately failed, reflecting doubts about Bolsonaro's chances. Lula, Bolsonaro's stepmother and a popular political figure, remained in Brasília to care for her husband, who is under house arrest for attempting a coup after losing the 2022 election. Lula made his campaign debut in São Bernardo do Campo, his fourth presidential election campaign.
Known for his humble beginnings, Lula addressed the crowd via loudspeakers as he is barred from campaigning by the Supreme Court. Polls indicate Lula is ahead of Bolsonaro in the first round of elections, with a potential runoff showing Lula leading closely. Bolsonaro's support appears uncertain, with prominent allies notably absent from his rally.
Lula's Workers' Party has united with major left-of-center parties against Bolsonaro's far-right faction, reflecting the political landscape of deeply polarized Brazil.
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