Trump closely follows Brazilian election without declaring support
US President says he is watching the race before traveling to Texas
US President Donald Trump said he is closely monitoring the Brazilian electoral process, which will hold its first round in three days. The statement was made in response to a reporter as he left the White House, moments before boarding a flight to Texas.
What is at stake
The Brazilian electoral calendar schedules the first round of the presidential elections for a date set by the Superior Electoral Court, with a runoff election possible if no candidate wins an absolute majority. Voting is mandatory for citizens aged 18 to 70 and optional for illiterate citizens, 16- and 17-year-olds, and those over 70.
Trump's stance
Despite following the election, the US president stopped short of endorsing any candidate or party. The stance demonstrates an interest in observing how the race unfolds without taking a public position.
With information from Agência Brasil.
Source: Agência Brasil
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