Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, aged 80, officially launched his campaign for a fourth presidential term on August 3, 2026, seeking re-election in the upcoming October vote [1, 2, 3]. Lula was formally nominated by the Workers' Party at their national convention in São Paulo on August 2 and will run alongside Vice President Geraldo Alckmin [1, 3].

Lula emphasized his physical fitness and readiness to govern, stating he is "in great shape," maintains a healthy lifestyle, and wants to "fight against old age" so he does not end up "shuffling along" [1, 2, 3]. He declared, "I want to be prepared so that no one invades this country" and emphasized Brazil’s sovereignty amidst foreign pressures, including tensions linked to the previous Trump administration in the U.S. [1, 2]. Lula added, "In Brazil, we do not accept anyone meddling in our affairs" [1].

The president previously served two consecutive terms from 2003 to 2010 and returned to power three years ago following the annulment of corruption charges that had caused his imprisonment [1, 2]. Lula’s political career spans 17 of the last 24 years in Brazil, a period in which he became a symbol of steady leadership amid geopolitical challenges [1, 2].

His campaign highlights protecting Brazil’s natural resources, including rare earth elements, from foreign interference by countries such as China, the U.S., and France [1]. Social worker Cristiane Rosa Julho expressed support, saying, "I’m here today because Lula’s policies changed my life and my family’s. Thanks to him, we own our own home today" [2].

Lula’s main rival is Flavio Bolsonaro, 45, son of former far-right president Jair Bolsonaro, who criticizes electronic voting systems asserting, "Anyone who does not believe in universal elections should not run for president" and praised the precision of electronic vote counting [1]. Recent Datafolha polling shows Lula leading Bolsonaro 48% to 43% among voters likely to participate in a second-round runoff [1].

Under Brazil’s constitution, presidents may serve two consecutive terms but can run for additional non-consecutive terms without limits. Lula has said he will retire after his potential fourth term and spend time with his 59-year-old wife Rosangela [1, 2].

The deadline for official candidate registration is August 15, 2026, with the formal campaign period opening the next day [1].