From Seattletimes · · 1m
Brazil’s undecided voters may decide election
Brazil’s undecided voters could determine presidential election outcome.
In brief
Brazil’s undecided voters could determine presidential election outcome. Brazil’s undecided and abstaining voters may decide the presidential election between Lula and Bolsonaro. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Ana Beatriz Bon Raggio
A 19-year-old theater student in Rio de Janeiro says she is undecided between Lula and Bolsonaro.
“The right mixes religion and faith, whereas I think those things should be separate, while (Lula’s) Workers’ Party has robbed the country”
Historical distrust
Bolsonaro faces corruption investigations and Lula was jailed for 19 months on corruption charges that were later annulled.
“Bolsonaro’s father, former president Jair Bolsonaro, is currently serving a 27-year sentence for planning a coup after his 2022 defeat to Lula”
Second round election
More than 33 million voters abstained in Brazil’s first round, the highest since 1998.
“Abstention of 20% isn’t ideal”
Bolsonaro’s advantages
Bolsonaro received 2 million more votes than Lula and has right-wing allies who will not support either candidate.
“Caiado, who garnered around 2.6 million votes, endorsed Bolsonaro on Tuesday”
Economic struggles
Gasoline prices rose from 5 reais ($1) per liter in January 2023 to 6.54 reais ($1.31) per liter in September 2026.
“But things are more expensive, and I’m feeling it”
Political polarization
Nearly six million people cast blank or spoiled votes as Brazil’s election becomes increasingly polarized.
“We talk a lot about polarization in Brazil, but we forget the higher percentage of people who don’t like this fight”
What happens next
Brazil’s undecided voters could determine the presidential election outcome in the second round on Oct 25.
“Brazil’s situation is complicated; I don’t think it’s a good idea for either of them to govern”
The bottom line
Brazil’s undecided and abstaining voters may decide the presidential election between Lula and Bolsonaro.
