One Million Brazilians Fill Avenida Paulista in Support of Lula and Democracy

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva gathered in São Paulo on Sunday with approximately one million people along central Avenida Paulista in support of the progressive leader's candidacy for a fourth non-consecutive term in defense of democracy and equal rights.

The massive rally, which filled São Paulo’s main artery in red, took place two weeks ahead of the runoff election that will determine the South American nation's next president. In the first round held on October 4, far-right candidate Flávio Bolsonaro secured 47.03% of the vote, while Lula received 45.16%.

The march formed part of a national mobilization organized by labor unions, academic centers, the National Union of Students, and social movements advocating for national sovereignty and democracy. Upon arriving, the progressive leader condemned Bolsonaro's proposed spending cuts, comparing them to the harsh austerity measures that have severely impacted public spending, employment, and household finances in Argentina.

“Likely the same as Milei in Argentina: cutting the rights of the poor and retirees. In other words, plunging the people into misery once again in this country!” stated Lula, who called for the mobilization of the approximately 30 million Brazilians who abstained in the first round, placing particular focus on citizens over 70 years old for whom voting is optional.

“Today, Paulista was filled with one million people. We took to the streets to defend our rights, our democracy, and a Brazil that respects the interests of the Brazilian people! No one will silence us! When the people unite and take to the streets, democracy advances and Brazil changes. Let us keep moving forward! Let us occupy the streets and networks, confront the threats of setbacks, and fight for more rights, justice, and opportunities for all!” Lula posted on X.

“We had over 30 million people who did not turn out to vote. Many elderly people over 70 did not vote because the law does not require them to do so. We must speak with people aged 60 to 70 who believe they no longer need to vote. Being 60 or 70 does not make a person useless. If a person does not want to vote for themselves, they must go for their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the homeland so that they are cared for,” he affirmed.

Several media outlets estimated attendance between one and two million people along iconic Paulista Avenue, draped in the colors of the Workers' Party during the March for Democracy, where crowds chanted “Olé, olé, olé, olá, Lula, Lula” and “Fascists shall not pass.”

“We hold a massive responsibility; we cannot allow thieves to return to govern this country,” Lula told the gathering, noting that the Senate is scheduled to vote next week on reducing the workweek and eliminating the 6x1 work schedule to grant workers additional rest—a proposal that stands in stark contrast to Bolsonaro’s platform favoring deregulation, privatization, state reduction, and spending cuts.