Lula Mobilizes Thousands on Avenida Paulista, Calls for Voter Engagement Ahead of Runoff

On October 11, 2026, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva led a major mobilization effort in São Paulo's Avenida Paulista to rally support ahead of the presidential election's second round on October 25. The March for Democracy drew thousands of supporters, including militants, students, artists, and social movements such as pop culture fandoms and LGBT+ pride groups. Lula emphasized the critical need to engage the nearly 30 million citizens who abstained from voting in the first round, particularly older voters for whom voting is optional.

During the rally, Lula criticized opposition figures, including Flávio Bolsonaro's proposed budget cuts, terming them harmful to the poor. He condemned the previous administration's mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and called for strengthened federal crime prevention through a proposed Ministry of Public Security. Lula also highlighted the upcoming Senate vote on October 14 concerning the controversial 6x1 work schedule, urging supporters to back its end.

He expressed disappointment with the organization of his campaign in the first round but remained focused on counteracting disillusionment and mobilizing voters. Additionally, Lula condemned the Superior Electoral Court's suspension of a WhatsApp channel supporting his campaign, labeling it a biased move and announcing plans to legally challenge the ruling.

The São Paulo event was part of broader pro-Lula demonstrations held simultaneously in other Brazilian cities like Campinas and Belo Horizonte, reflecting substantial nationwide support as the electoral contest intensifies.