Lula Launches Re-election Campaign in São Bernardo do Campo

President Lula launched his campaign for a fourth term in the presidency on Sunday, 16, at the 1º de Maio stadium in São Bernardo do Campo. The location was chosen for its symbolic value as the site of the 1979 metalworkers strikes that helped lead to the foundation of the Workers Party (PT) in 1980. The event took place on the first day permitted by the Electoral Court for candidates to request votes.

First-lady Janja da Silva and Senator candidate Benedita da Silva delivered the opening speeches. Janja honored Lula's late wife, Marisa Letícia, noting her essential role in the background of the 1979 strikes and her act of embroidering the first PT flag. Janja also emphasized that Brazil needs a president who cares for women rather than viewing them only as caregivers. Following her speech, Janja performed a song for the president alongside singer and pastor Kleber Lucas.

Lula arrived at the stadium by helicopter and was greeted by supporters with chants. The event featured video testimonials from former union colleagues from the 1970s and 1980s who later joined the president on stage. Organizers expected between 20,000 and 30,000 attendees, arranging caravans from other states to ensure a strong turnout. The stadium, which has a capacity of 12,500, saw its stands fill up before the event began, with crowds also occupying the grass.

Reporting on the event varied by political lean. Center and center-left sources focused on the emotional tributes to Marisa Letícia and the historical significance of the venue. In contrast, a center-right source framed the opening speeches as a response to Lula's previous criticisms regarding the lack of women speaking at party events.