The opening of Brazil’s televised presidential campaign season saw candidates engage in a debate centered on the country's foreign policy and economic strategy. A primary point of contention was Brazil's balancing act between its historical ties to the United States and its growing economic partnership with China. Candidates addressed the impact of American tariffs on the Brazilian economy and criticized the current government’s approach to international trade and diplomatic relations.

The debate took place in São Paulo, featuring candidates including Ronaldo Caiado, Augusto Cury, and Renan Santos. Notably, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and other key political figures were absent from the stage, leaving the remaining participants to critique the administration's foreign policy record. The discussion also touched upon recent friction regarding visa disputes and the monitoring of Brazil’s electoral processes, which have further complicated the nation's international standing. While the candidates agreed that Brazil’s economic future is tied to its global trade strategy, they offered differing views on whether the current administration’s pivot toward China serves the country’s long-term interests or risks alienating traditional Western partners.