Lula Declares Candidacy for Fourth Presidential Term in Brazil

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva officially announced his intention to seek reelection for a fourth nonconsecutive term during a press conference in Indonesia on Thursday. At 80 years old, Lula expressed confidence in his ability to lead, stating, “I’m turning 80, but you can be sure I have the same energy I had when I was 30.” His announcement comes as part of a diplomatic trip across Asia.

Following his visit to Indonesia, where he engaged with President Prabowo Subianto, Lula plans to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Malaysia. Notably, he is expected to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump for the first time on Sunday to discuss the contentious 50% trade tariff Trump imposed on Brazil earlier this year. This meeting follows a conciliatory phone call between the two leaders earlier this month.

Brazil’s constitution permits presidents to serve only two consecutive terms. Lula returned to the presidency in 2023 after a 13-year absence, having previously defeated Jair Bolsonaro in the 2022 election to secure his third term. Initially, Lula had indicated that this latest campaign would be his last due to both his age and a desire for political renewal in Brazil. However, he has since hinted at the possibility of running again, stating in February 2023 that his decision would depend on the political landscape and his health.

Political Landscape and Challenges

As a prominent figure on Brazil’s political left, Lula is the longest-serving president since the country transitioned to democracy 40 years ago. Despite his popularity, concerns have arisen regarding his age and health. He underwent emergency surgery for a brain bleed late last year after a fall, yet Lula maintains that he is in good health, often sharing workout videos on social media to emphasize his vitality.

Currently, Lula leads in polls for the upcoming 2026 election, although approximately half of voters express disapproval of his presidency. The imposition of tariffs by Trump has sparked renewed interest in Lula’s leadership, positively impacting his approval ratings. Meanwhile, his main political rival, Bolsonaro, has been barred from running for office and is serving a 27-year prison sentence for attempting a coup. Analysts note that the emergence of a strong opposition candidate may depend on Bolsonaro’s influence, as he remains under house arrest.

As Lula prepares for this new electoral battle, the Brazilian political landscape remains dynamic, with his campaign likely to focus on economic recovery and social issues that resonate with voters. The upcoming months will be crucial as Lula navigates both domestic challenges and international relations in pursuit of his fourth term.