Lula Claims Fourth Term After Narrow Win in Brazilian Runoff

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva secured a fourth term as president of Brazil on Sunday. He defeated Senator Flavio Bolsonaro in a close runoff election. The Superior Electoral Court confirmed the results late on Sunday night. Lula received 51.78 percent of the valid votes. Bolsonaro received 48.22 percent.

Heavy rain and technical issues disrupted voting across the country. Polls were scheduled to close at 7 p.m. local time. The Supreme Court approved a two-hour extension. This allowed polls to remain open until 9 p.m. local time. Bolsonaro stated he would challenge the outcome. He cited the extension as an arbitrary change to the rules.

Bolsonaro said his legal team would seek to have the elections annulled. He argued that Lula's allies on the Federal Supreme Court changed the rules. Reports indicate that both campaigns requested the extension. They cited the downpours and transport disruptions that prevented some voters from reaching their stations.

Lula is the first presidential candidate in modern Brazilian history to win the runoff after losing the first round. His victory runs counter to a regional trend toward right-wing governments. He is scheduled to begin his new term on January 5, 2027. His previous terms focused on poverty reduction and environmental protection.

Lula addressed his supporters after the result was announced. He promised to dedicate himself to the role 24 hours a day. He called his new administration the best any president has ever served. He emphasized national sovereignty in his remarks. He stated that Brazil is no one's backyard.

Lula has long criticized the United States and Israel. He supports Palestinian statehood and stronger ties with China and Iran. These positions contrast with those of his opponent. The result marks a continuation of his political record focused on emerging economies.

Leaders from across the region sent congratulations to Lula. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum offered her support. United States Senator Bernie Sanders also sent a message. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was among the public figures who congratulated him on his re-election.