Presidential Debate Marked by Absence of Frontrunners, Fierce Attacks on Lula and Bolsonaro

Brazil's first presidential debate for the 2026 election, held by Band, became a stage for criticism directed at President Lula and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, both leading in polls but absent from the event.

The debate, intended to feature key presidential hopefuls, was significantly diminished by the no-shows. With Lula citing a disadvantage in facing multiple opponents and Bolsonaro opting out without his main rival present, the event hosted only Ronaldo Caiado (PSD), Renan Santos (Missão), and Augusto Cury (Avante). This made it the least attended presidential debate since Brazil's return to democracy.

Renan Santos immediately set an aggressive tone, displaying diapers with Lula and Bolsonaro's names and labeling them "criminals who do business with organized crime." Caiado supported these criticisms, calling their absence an "affront" and the absent leaders "fugitives."

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This is not right when men start hugging each other, kissing, women kiss men, men kiss women. This was never in our customs.

Augusto Cury initially announced he would leave in protest of the absences and Lula's simultaneous interview on another network, but he returned, citing respect for the journalists. Throughout the debate, Santos launched personal attacks, calling Lula "drunk" and "shameless," and referring to Flávio Bolsonaro with derogatory terms, referencing investigations and past incidents.

Caiado and Cury engaged in discussions about proposals, representing the main exchange of ideas during the event. The empty podiums of the absent candidates became a focal point, with Santos even positioning himself between them for photos.

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Men should shake hands with each other, grip it firmly, not offer a hand like a warm cutlet or a twig.