Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has officially launched his campaign for a fourth presidential term, declaring that, if re-elected in October, it would be the final chapter of his decades-long political career.
Speaking to supporters of the Workers’ Party (PT) at a campaign rally in São Paulo on Sunday, the 80-year-old leader announced his candidacy and outlined a campaign focused less on economic promises and more on defending Brazil’s sovereignty, strategic natural resources and national independence.
Lula, who previously served two consecutive terms from 2003 to 2010 before returning to office in 2023, is now seeking the presidency for the seventh time.
Addressing thousands of supporters, he pledged to strengthen Brazil’s defense capabilities and safeguard the country’s vast reserves of rare minerals and other strategic resources from foreign influence.
“I want Brazil to be prepared so that no one dares interfere in our affairs,” Lula said, adding that China, the United States, France or any other country must respect Brazil’s sovereignty before seeking access to its natural resources.
Tensions with Washington Shape Campaign
Lula’s nationalist message comes amid renewed tensions between Brasília and Washington.
Last month, the United States imposed two rounds of tariffs on a range of Brazilian exports, accusing Brazil of pursuing unfair trade practices. The Brazilian government has rejected those allegations, describing the measures as unjustified.
The dispute has also acquired a political dimension, with U.S. President Donald Trump maintaining close ties with the family of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.
With Bolsonaro barred from running after being convicted over his role in an alleged plot to overturn the results of the 2022 presidential election, his son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, has emerged as the leading candidate for Brazil’s conservative opposition.
Lula accused Flávio Bolsonaro of acting against Brazil’s national interests, calling him “a person who betrayed the nation”—an allegation the senator has strongly denied.
Economy, Security and Corruption Dominate Election Debate
While emphasizing sovereignty, Lula also highlighted his administration’s economic record, pointing to stronger economic growth, job creation and expanded social welfare programs that, according to his supporters, have improved the lives of millions of low-income Brazilians.
At the rally, social activist Cristiane Rosa Julio said her family had been able to purchase their first home thanks to government social policies introduced under Lula’s administration.
Political analysts, however, note that the president faces significant domestic challenges.
Rising living costs, widening budget deficits and growing public concern over crime and public security remain major issues likely to influence voters ahead of the election, particularly in regions heavily affected by organized criminal groups.
Both political camps also continue to face corruption-related controversies.
Investigators are examining allegations that Flávio Bolsonaro sought financial support from a banker accused of fraud, while one of Lula’s sons is under investigation over separate allegations involving corruption and influence peddling. Neither case has resulted in a final court ruling.
Tight Race Ahead
According to the latest Datafolha opinion poll, Lula would secure 48 percent of the vote in a potential runoff election, compared with 43 percent for Flávio Bolsonaro, suggesting the race remains highly competitive.
Political scientist Leonardo Paz of the Getulio Vargas Foundation said Lula’s emphasis on sovereignty is politically strategic, allowing the president to frame some of Brazil’s challenges within the context of external pressure while appealing to nationalist sentiment.
Responding to criticism over his age, Lula insisted he remains physically fit through regular exercise and walking, claiming he is in better health than when he first won the presidency in 2002.
Analysts expect Lula to campaign on his experience and record in office, while the opposition is likely to focus on inflation, public security and controversies surrounding the current administration as Brazil heads toward one of its most closely watched presidential elections in recent history.