Brazilian polls show Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro tied at 50 percent

A Datafolha survey released Thursday places President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro at an even 50 percent apiece in the Brazilian presidential race. The result erases a four-point advantage Bolsonaro held in polling from two weeks prior. The data arrives two days before the final vote on Sunday.

The candidates met for their last debate on Friday in Rio de Janeiro, broadcast by TV Globo. The exchange focused on economic policy, infrastructure, and regional development. Bolsonaro argued that Lula left the country bankrupt, comparing his intended fiscal approach to that of Argentine President Javier Milei. He said he would perform the same job there because of the incumbent's record.

Lula challenged Bolsonaro's plan to cut public spending, drawing a parallel to Milei's use of a chainsaw. The 80-year-old incumbent also criticized his rival's personal experience, stating that the senator does not know what hunger is and does not know Brazil. Bolsonaro countered by asking why goods are so expensive, linking the cost of living to organized crime expansion under Lula's administration.

Tensions rose when Bolsonaro referred to Lula as Nine Fingers, a nickname referencing an industrial accident from the president's past. Lula demanded an apology, which Bolsonaro provided. The debate also saw Lula label Bolsonaro a vigilante, citing allegations of ties to paramilitary groups in Rio. Bolsonaro responded by saying he would classify such groups as narcoterrorists.

Another heated moment involved the mother of a five-year-old child killed in a shootout involving a police officer represented by Bolsonaro. The senator stated he did not believe his client was guilty. The final debate was described as more diplomatic than their first meeting, though it still contained personal attacks.

Bolsonaro finished first in the October 4 first round with 47 percent of the vote, compared to Lula's 45 percent. Both candidates are scheduled to join supporters in the streets of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo for their final campaign events before the Sunday vote.