Lula, Flavio Bolsonaro tied at 50 percent in final poll as debate ends

The Brazilian presidential race stands at a statistical deadlock as voters prepare for the runoff vote on Sunday. A survey by the Datafolha institute, published on Thursday, places incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and challenger Flavio Bolsonaro at 50 percent each. This result erases the four-point lead Bolsonaro held in polls released two weeks prior.

The final debate took place on Friday in Rio de Janeiro and was broadcast on TV Globo. The two candidates focused on policy differences regarding the economy, infrastructure, and regional development. The tone was more diplomatic than their first meeting on Sunday, though personal attacks still occurred. Lula criticized Bolsonaro's plan to cut public spending, comparing the approach to the policies of Argentina's president, Javier Milei. Bolsonaro argued that he would face similar conditions because Lula is leaving the country bankrupt.

Bolsonaro, a senator and the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, accused the incumbent of allowing organized crime to grow and failing to control the cost of living. Lula, Brazil's first working-class president, responded with personal criticisms. He stated that his rival does not know what hunger is and does not know Brazil. Bolsonaro countered by asking why things are so expensive and pitched himself as a candidate for change.

Tensions rose when Bolsonaro referred to Lula as Nine Fingers, a nickname referencing an accident Lula suffered while working as a metalworker. The 80-year-old president demanded an apology, which Bolsonaro offered. Lula then called Bolsonaro a vigilante, citing allegations of ties to paramilitary groups in Rio. Bolsonaro said he would classify such groups as narcoterrorists. A third heated exchange involved the mother of a five-year-old killed in a shootout involving a police officer represented by Bolsonaro. The candidate stated he does not believe his client was guilty.

Bolsonaro finished first in the opening round of voting on October 4 with 47 percent of the vote, compared to Lula's 45 percent. The current 50 percent tie reflects a significant shift in the final days of the campaign. Both candidates are scheduled to join supporters on the streets of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo for their final campaign push before the vote.

The survey data indicates that the lead Bolsonaro maintained in earlier polls has disappeared. The race now hinges on undecided voters in the two days remaining before the election. The final debate concluded without a clear winner, leaving both sides claiming the advantage.