Brazil’s Lula wins historic fourth term in dramatic comeback

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva secured an unprecedented fourth term in a surprising victory on Sunday, defying global anti-incumbent sentiment and prevailing amidst a wave of right-wing wins in Latin America. The 80-year-old former metalworker and union leader, hailed as an icon of the global left, outmaneuvered Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who had initially topped the first-round vote. Lula's re-election served as yet another comeback in his career marked by endurance and resilience.

Despite facing criticism over corruption scandals, rising prices, and his image as out of touch with the modern economy, Lula's fourth term victory was propelled by better-than-expected voter turnout. Pollsters attributed this to people choosing Lula's familiar embrace over Bolsonaro's novelty, favoring a known path for certain rights over change, even with apprehension.

During the campaign, Lula highlighted a record of falling poverty, inequality, and unemployment, while noting deforestation also hit a record low during his third term. He cautioned Bolsonaro about cutting welfare spending, backing away from social advancements, and potentially handing over Brazil's sovereignty to US President Donald Trump.