Brazilian presidential campaign kicks off with attacks between Lula and Bolsonaro

Brazil's free presidential campaign on the radio launched Saturday, with the initial broadcasts dominated by sharp exchanges between leading candidates Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, known as Lula, of the Workers' Party (PT), and Flávio Bolsonaro of the Liberal Party (PL).

Lula's campaign focused on his previous terms in office, citing accomplishments such as expanding universities, establishing full-time schools, and creating the "Pé-de-Meia" program. The campaign also played an audio clip of Bolsonaro, referring to him as "Flávio, the worst of the Bolsonaros." Bolsonaro, in turn, attacked Lula and made appeals to women voters. His campaign presented him as someone who would show "the real Brazil," contrasting it with what he suggested would be Lula's "pretty scenes," and highlighted issues like organized crime and family debt.

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Flávio, the worst of the Bolsonaros.

Ronaldo Caiado of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) used his airtime to promote his record as governor of Goiás, pointing to successes in security and education. Like the other candidates, he also shared personal anecdotes, speaking about his marriage to Gracinha Caiado, who is running for a Senate seat in Goiás.

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He will show pretty scenes, while Flávio will show the real Brazil.

Lula dedicated a significant portion of his time to attacking Flávio Bolsonaro, referencing an audio recording of Bolsonaro requesting money from a banker, the "rachadinha" scheme revealed in 2019, and his past tribute to militia member Adriano da Nóbrega. The campaign concluded its spot by reiterating, "Flávio, the worst of the Bolsonaros."

Both Lula and Bolsonaro employed similar communication strategies, including funk-inspired jingles and a format featuring two presenters, one male and one female, in interview-style segments. Lula's program was titled "Brasil pronto para mais" (Brazil ready for more), while Bolsonaro's was "Bate-papo com Flávio na Rádio 22" (Chatting with Flávio on Radio 22).

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We are going to a club that does very good things. They were also successful in the Champions League last season. They aim to add more quality to a squad with strong players.