Lula rallies supporters in Rio, frames election as choice between seriousness and scandal

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held a campaign motorcade through central Rio de Janeiro on Friday, telling supporters the election pits "seriousness" against those who "engage in orgies." The remark targeted Senator Flavio Bolsonaro following media reports about alleged infidelity and parties with sex workers.

Lula declared he is convinced of winning Sunday's vote outright, urging militants to work until polls close at 5 p.m. to avoid a runoff. He specifically appealed to voters over 70, who are not legally required to vote, linking their participation to defending democracy.

“This election is the fight of seriousness, of men who have a biography of struggle, against those who engage in orgies.”

The president also attacked Flavio Bolsonaro's past defense of a military police officer accused of killing a five-year-old girl. Lula warned that a victory for the right would risk the return of a "gang" linked to Banco Master.

Thousands marched from Candelaria Church to Cinelandia, accompanied by Senate candidates Benedita da Silva and Pedro Paulo. Lula framed the vote as a referendum on the continuity of Brazilian democracy.