Presidential Candidates Seek Support in Sao Paulo Rallies in Brazil

Ahead of the October 25 runoff in Brazil's polarized presidential election, candidates held rallies and political meetings in Sao Paulo, the country's largest state capital, to gather support.

Final Stretch of the Election and Sao Paulo Rallies

With the runoff vote of the highly anticipated presidential election in Brazil fast approaching, candidates have accelerated their efforts. Sao Paulo, the country's largest state capital, has become one of the critical addresses of the electoral race.

Flavio Bolsonaro's Local Government Contacts

Conservative Senator Flavio Bolsonaro met with Sao Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas after finishing the first round held on October 4 in the lead with 47 percent of the vote. Bolsonaro continued his quest for political support at the local level by meeting with mayors and city council members.

Stating that federal resources would reach the local level directly if he is elected, Bolsonaro pledged that more funding would be provided to municipalities to combat crime.

Lula da Silva's Avenida Paulista Rally

Incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, on the other hand, held a large, well-attended rally on Avenida Paulista after finishing the first round two points behind. Before taking the stage, the left-wing leader stated that he would double his efforts on public security, one of the voters' biggest concerns.

Lula emphasized that if re-elected, he wants to readdress the national approach to crime-fighting with the direct involvement of the federal government.

Voters' Demands and Calls for Turnout

Speaking to the crowd from atop a sound truck during the rally, the incumbent president urged young voters, who made up a large portion of the crowd, to go to the ballot boxes, while also appealing to elderly citizens, for whom voting is optional for those over 70. Retired workers also took part in the rally area to voice their support for the candidates.