Presidential elections in Brazil: Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro face off in a decisive vote for the country’s direction

Approximately 160 million Brazilians are called to the polls on Sunday to choose between left-wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and conservative Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, in a closely contested election that could change the political direction of Latin America’s largest economy.

80-year-old Lula is running for a fourth and final nonconsecutive term. He is basing his campaign on social programs, declining unemployment, and reduced deforestation in the Amazon, but is criticized over the cost of living and crime.

45-year-old Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, is promoting tough measures against crime, austerity, and closer ties with Washington. He became the right-wing candidate after his father was convicted of attempting a coup.

A Datafolha poll gives Lula 45% of voting intentions, compared with 42% for his rival, with the difference within the margin of error. Neither would obtain the required majority, however, so a second round is scheduled for October 25.

The campaign has been marked by reciprocal attacks and corruption allegations.

Donald Trump is closely watching the election, after his administration imposed tariffs and sanctions on Brazil.