Lula and Bolsonaro clash in final Brazil election debate

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 07:09 · Archive

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro sparred over inflation and cost of living in their final debate before Brazil's run-off vote.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro squared off in their final presidential debate before Brazil's run-off election, with both candidates aiming to win over undecided voters in a closely contested race. The over two-hour debate, hosted by Globo, Brazil's most-watched TV channel, covered the cost of living, welfare and security, whilst the two traded allegations of corruption and personal attacks.

Lula, seeking his fourth term after winning back the presidency in 2022, defended his government's above-inflation minimum wage increases and said his administration had helped millions of Brazilians escape hunger. He compared Bolsonaro to students preparing for college entrance exams, saying 'They can memorise things, but they can't learn.' He also remarked that 'in the gated community where Bolsonaro lives, people don't go hungry'.

Bolsonaro countered that food prices rose during Lula's administration and criticised a tax reform the government approved, arguing it would increase the tax burden on consumers. He said 'Lula doesn't even remember the last time he went grocery shopping because he lives in a luxury palace now.' Bolsonaro led in the first round of voting in October, though opinion polls subsequently narrowed the gap between them to roughly even.

How it is being reported

• Bolsonaro, Lula clash in final Brazil election debatePresident Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and rival Flavio Bolsonaro have traded barbs and duelled over inflation in the last debate before Brazil's run-off vote.The West Australian · 24 Oct, 06:30
• Bolsonaro, Lula clash in final Brazil election debatePresident Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and rival Flavio Bolsonaro have traded barbs and duelled over inflation in the last debate before Brazil's run-off vote.Perth Now · 24 Oct, 06:30

In this story: Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva · Flavio Bolsonaro · Jair Bolsonaro · Brazil · Globo

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