Brazil’s 80-year-old Lula hits the treadmill to ease voter concerns about age
SAO PAULO — Fewer podiums and interviews. More lunges and squats.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is boosting his reelection campaign at 80 by showcasing his fitness routine, which has garnered more attention than his policies among critics.
While opinions are split on whether he should run for a fourth nonconsecutive term, there is widespread agreement on his dedication to daily treadmill sessions.
“He may be too old to run again. It might be better to have someone else. But his workouts are inspiring for people like me,” said 63-year-old Marcela Peres as she worked out in a Brasilia gym.
Lula’s emphasis on fitness has prompted his main rival, Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, to showcase his own exercises.
Some voters fear Lula might follow Joe Biden’s path, who withdrew from the 2024 race due to health concerns. But Lula is flexing his muscles to rally supporters once more.
“One fool said it wasn’t me, that I was a clone,” Lula remarked in response to doubts about his fitness. “Go to the gym. Get ready. Drink less. Let’s see what happens. I want to live to 120.”
If Lula wins in October, he will break his own record as Brazil’s oldest elected president, with his main rival being nearly half his age.
His opponent recently mocked him as an aging car, but Lula shrugged it off by likening himself to a turbo car.
Political observers see this emphasis on fitness as a strategic move to counter ageism and appeal to a shifting demographic in Brazil’s electorate.
The number of eligible elderly voters in Brazil has significantly increased, with this demographic holding considerable political clout.
As the election approaches, the focus on physical fitness and vitality is becoming a defining factor for candidates, regardless of age.
Musician Antonio Moreira believes that Lula’s fitness regime not only motivates older individuals to stay active but also plays a role in winning over undecided voters.
While flashy dance moves may capture attention, voters are looking for substantial proposals and real solutions from candidates.
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AP journalist Lucas Dumphreys contributed to this report from Rio de Janeiro.
