Polls show Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro tied at 50 percent before final vote

A survey from the Datafolha institute published on Thursday shows President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro tied at 50 percent each in Brazil's presidential race. This result erases the four-point lead Bolsonaro held in polls released two weeks earlier. The data arrives two days before the final runoff vote scheduled for Sunday.

The latest numbers indicate a statistical deadlock between the incumbent and his right-wing challenger. Bolsonaro finished first in the opening round of voting on October 4 with 47 percent of the vote. Lula received 45 percent in that first round. The new survey suggests that the gap between the two candidates has closed completely in the final stretch of the campaign.

The candidates held their final debate in Rio de Janeiro on Friday. The event was broadcast on TV Globo and marked the last formal meeting of the two men before voters head to the polls. The exchange focused on policy, with both men questioning each other on economic management, infrastructure, and regional development. The tone was more diplomatic than their first meeting, though personal attacks still occurred.

Lula criticized Bolsonaro's plan to cut public spending, comparing the approach to the policies of Argentina's libertarian president, Javier Milei. Bolsonaro countered that Lula is leaving the country bankrupt. He stated he would have the same job as Milei in Argentina. Bolsonaro also accused Lula of allowing organized crime to expand and of failing to control the high cost of living.

Lula, who is 80 years old, responded with personal jabs. He said his rival does not know what hunger is. Bolsonaro replied by asking why things are so expensive. Lula also questioned the senator's experience, declaring that he does not know Brazil. Bolsonaro maintained that he is a capable candidate who stands for change.

Tensions rose during the debate when Bolsonaro used the nickname Nine Fingers for Lula. The term refers to an accident Lula suffered while working as a metalworker. Lula demanded an apology, which Bolsonaro offered. Later, Lula 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 moment involved the mother of a five-year-old killed in a shootout that involved a police officer represented by Bolsonaro. The candidate said he does not believe his client was guilty.

Both candidates are expected to join supporters on the streets of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo for their final campaign push. The vote will take place on Sunday.