President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, from the PT, signaled to allies that he prefers not to attend the debate promoted by TV Globo this Thursday. The main concern among the petista's circle is becoming the preferred target of the other candidates.
Decisive Meeting in Brasília
On Monday morning, before traveling to Belém, Lula met with the campaign core. Participants included PT president Edinho Silva, minister Sidônio Palmeira, marketer Raul Rabelo and advisor Paulo Okamoto. So far, the petista's official schedule for debate day remains open.
Internal Division on the Format
Part of the team supports Lula's attendance to confront Flávio Bolsonaro on national television. Others warn that the presence of multiple candidates could prevent a direct clash and prolong the answers. Edinho Silva told Rádio TMC that the president would only participate if he could debate directly with the PL opponent.
Strategy Change at the PL
On Flávio Bolsonaro's side, the decision was changed after the wear caused by the controversy involving Nossa Senhora Aparecida. Until last week, the candidate conditioned his presence on Lula's. Now, he confirmed he will attend regardless of the petista's participation.
- Flávio stated on Sunday that he wants to “rub the truth” in the president's face.
- Electoral law requires broadcasters to invite only parties with at least five parliamentarians.
Expectation for the Second Round
With voting only three days away, Lula's refusal could shift the major confrontation to a possible second round, when only the two main names would be at the table.