Brazil's gender gap drives 2026 presidential contest

Former state deputy Luana Ribeiro released a video urging greater female participation in politics, noting that women constitute the majority of Brazilian voters yet remain a minority in elected offices. She called for competent women to be given equal opportunities to run for office.

Political scientists highlight a growing gender gap in Brazil: men tend to support right‑leaning candidates while women lean left. Datafolha polls show male voters currently favor Flávio Bolsonaro (50% vs 41% for Lula), whereas female voters back Lula (52% vs 37% for Bolsonaro). The divide is shaping campaign strategies, with Lula emphasizing policies aimed at women, such as ending the 6×1 scale and expanding care programs, while Bolsonaro seeks to attract male voters on issues like security, taxes and fiscal balance.