Brazil President Lula draws criticism for vulgar gesture amid election campaign

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva made an obscene gesture, raising his middle finger, during a live appearance at the Palácio do Planalto after rejecting the claim that "the poor don’t like good things." He said, "Here for them," while showing the gesture, prompting criticism for disrespecting the office of the presidency.

The incident occurs as Brazil’s 2026 election campaign heats up. Candidates are vying for the endorsement of popular governor Ratinho Junior, while figures such as former president‑candidate Sergio Moro, senator Hamilton Mourão and deputy Gustavo Gayer are active in parliamentary disputes. Mourão has asked chancellor Mauro Vieira to clarify remarks about a possible U.S. invasion, and Gayer is seeking signatures to appoint Fabiano Alves to a major foundation. Former governor Mauro Mendes faces uncertainty over a Senate bid, and commentary notes Lula’s recent silence on foreign conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and the Israel‑Gaza situation.