Brazil is preparing for Sunday's first-round presidential election, featuring a tight race between incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and right-wing challenger Senator Flávio Bolsonaro. Millions of Brazilians will head to the ballot box in a high-stakes contest, four years after Lula narrowly defeated Jair Bolsonaro.
President Lula and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro wrapped up their campaigns on Saturday with rallies in the powerhouse state of Sao Paulo, where a fifth of the nation's vote is based. Both candidates sought to rally supporters and convince undecided voters. While both expressed confidence in victory, polls point to a likely runoff.
A CNT/MDA poll released Saturday showed that Lula's lead over Bolsonaro has narrowed, indicating a tighter race. The election has been marked by scandals, personal attacks, and voter concerns regarding the economy and crime.
As the country prepares to vote, officials in Brazil have grown increasingly concerned about the possibility of U.S. interference in the presidential vote.