Lula and Bolsonaro Tie at 50 Percent as Final Debate Ends in Rio

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and senator Flavio Bolsonaro concluded their campaign with a final debate in Rio de Janeiro on Friday. The two candidates traded sharp criticisms regarding the national economy, infrastructure, and regional development just 48 hours before Sunday's runoff election.

The economic clash centered on spending and debt. Lula attacked his opponent's plan to slash public expenditure, comparing the strategy to the methods of Argentina's President Javier Milei. Bolsonaro countered by arguing that Lula is leaving the country financially broken. "I'll have the same job here [as Milei in Argentina] because you're leaving the country bankrupt," Bolsonaro said.

The candidates also targeted each other's personal backgrounds and political experience. Lula, who served as a metalworker before entering politics, suggested his rival lacks practical knowledge of the country. "He doesn't know what hunger is," Lula stated. Bolsonaro responded by questioning the high cost of living for families. He also asserted that his candidacy represents a necessary shift in leadership, challenging Lula's long tenure in power.

Tensions rose when Bolsonaro referred to Lula as "Nine Fingers," a nickname referencing a workplace accident that cost the president part of a finger. The 80-year-old incumbent demanded an apology, which Bolsonaro then offered. The exchange highlighted the personal tone that occasionally broke through the debate's policy focus.

Context for the tight race includes a dramatic shift in recent polling data. Bolsonaro won the first round of voting on October 4 with 47 percent of the vote, while Lula received 45 percent. However, a survey by the Datafolha institute released Thursday shows the two men tied at 50 percent each. This result erases the four-point lead Bolsonaro held in polls published two weeks prior.

The debate was broadcast by TV Globo and marked a more diplomatic tone than their first meeting on Sunday, though personal jabs persisted. Both candidates are scheduled to hold final street rallies in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo to rally support before voters head to the polls on Sunday.