President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva launched his re-election campaign for the 2026 presidential election [2] on Sunday in São Bernardo do Campo [1].
The launch marks the beginning of a high-stakes bid for a second consecutive term. Lula is using the campaign to promote a policy agenda focused on national sovereignty and industrialization.
The event took place in the ABC region of São Paulo, a traditional stronghold for the president's political base [3]. During the rally, Lula outlined several key priorities for his next term, including the PEC da Segurança, and the creation of a new ministry [4]. He also emphasized the industrialization of critical minerals as a pillar of his economic strategy [4].
Addressing the crowd, Lula focused on the vision for the future of Brazil. "Nós vamos fazer desse país uma grande nação," Lula said [5].
Fernando Haddad also spoke at the event, highlighting the president's independence from powerful interests. "Ele nunca baixou a cabeça pra nenhum líder político, pra nenhum banqueiro, pra nenhum empresário. Sempre tratou todo mundo igual," Haddad said [6].
The president's choice of São Bernardo do Campo for the start of the campaign on Aug. 16, 2026 [1] underscores his connection to the labor movements of the region. The campaign will seek to consolidate support across the country ahead of the 2026 vote [2].
“"Nós vamos fazer desse país uma grande nação"”
By launching his campaign in the ABC region, Lula is signaling a return to his roots in the labor movement to energize his core constituency. The focus on critical minerals and security legislation suggests a platform that blends traditional left-wing social goals with a strategic, nationalist approach to economic development and internal stability.
