São Paulo candidates trade barbs on education, security in first TV debate

The first televised debate for the São Paulo governor's race quickly escalated into a national political battleground, with incumbent Tarcísio de Freitas and challenger Fernando Haddad trading sharp criticisms. The candidates focused their attacks on issues including education, public security, and the controversial "cracolândia" in the state capital.

Freitas accused the federal government, led by President Lula, of hindering state financing, while Haddad countered that Freitas should acknowledge federal support and accused him of "lying" about debt renegotiation programs. Haddad also criticized the state's declining performance in high school education and the shift towards digital learning platforms, which he argued negatively impacts teaching quality.

In response, Freitas highlighted his administration's efforts to address "cracolândia," questioning Haddad about his previous mayoral initiatives in São Paulo and whether he would maintain current policies. Haddad defended his past program's effectiveness in reducing crack use and stated that drug trafficking is a police matter, while the city's role is to assist users. He further accused Freitas's administration of failing to curb rising crime rates against women and racial minorities.

The debate also touched upon security, with Haddad questioning Freitas's ties to former congressman Eduardo Bolsonaro. Freitas, in turn, sent greetings to former President Bolsonaro, expressing gratitude for past support. Both candidates presented their full slates, including vice-governor nominees and senatorial candidates, with São Paulo Mayor Ricardo Nunes, an ally of Freitas, also in attendance. This matchup is a rematch of the 2022 election, though this year's debate features only the two leading contenders, signaling a potential early conclusion to the election.