Brazil: Lula, Bolsonaro return to strongholds to launch runs for president

Key Points:

• Brazil's main presidential candidates, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, launched their campaigns with large rallies in their respective strongholds, signaling a fierce upcoming election in October.
• Lula, 80, emphasized his policies and criticized foreign interference, particularly accusing the U.S. of supporting Bolsonaro's campaign through economic measures, while pledging to protect Brazil's rare mineral resources for the nation's benefit.
• Bolsonaro, 45, highlighted his ability to negotiate international trade deals with major global powers and received support from figures like Argentina's President Javier Milei and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
• Both candidates addressed the issue of gender violence, with Brazil experiencing a record number of femicides in early 2026; Lula vowed to introduce new gender-responsive policies, while Bolsonaro also promised to combat violence against women.
• The presidential election is scheduled for October 4, with women constituting nearly 53% of Brazil's 158 million eligible voters, making gender-related issues a significant campaign focus.