Fake Virgin of Aparecida story fuels controversy in Brazil's tight presidential race

A spurious story claiming Flávio Bolsonaro endorsed a proposal to revoke the Virgin of Aparecida's status as Brazil's patron saint has sparked a major controversy in the final days of the presidential campaign. Bolsonaro posted videos refuting the claim, while left-leaning activists amplified the allegation, linking it to broader accusations of religious intolerance. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference responded, emphasizing that lies should not be countered with more lies, and two Supreme Court judges issued opposing rulings on whether the post should be removed.

Poll data from Quaest indicates Lula's support has risen modestly, especially among Catholics and evangelicals, widening his lead but leaving a potential runoff virtually tied. The dispute underscores how both sides of Brazil's polarized politics continue to weaponize misinformation as the October 4 vote approaches.