Lula holds lead over Flávio Bolsonaro in Datafolha poll ahead of 2026 election
The latest Datafolha survey, conducted 22‑24 July 2026 with 2,004 respondents (margin of error ±2 percentage points, 95 % confidence), shows President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) leading the presidential race. In a simulated second‑round face‑to‑face with Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL) Lula obtains 48 % of intended votes versus Bolsonaro’s 43 %. In the first‑round scenario Lula registers 40 % while Bolsonaro trails at 32 %, an eight‑point gap. Rejection rates remain high, with 46 % of voters saying they would not vote for Lula at all and 48 % rejecting Bolsonaro. Other contenders register single‑digit support: Ronaldo Caiado (PSD) 4 %, Romeu Zema (Novo) and Renan Santos (Missão) each 3 %, and the remaining candidates between 1‑2 %. The poll’s results are consistent with the June poll, indicating stability in voter preferences despite recent campaign events, such as a debate challenge by former governor Ronaldo Caiado and the impact of new U.S. tariffs on Brazil. The survey is filed under the TSE number BR‑01166/2026.