Brazil's presidential election appears headed for a runoff

Bolsonaro has been endorsed by former U.S. President Donald Trump and former Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu.
Jair Bolsonaro, Jan. 16, 2019, Brasilia, Brazil

With more than 90% of the vote counted in the election for president of Brazil, neither major candidate appears to be crossing the 50% threshold to avoid a runoff. 

Leftist former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, commonly known as Lula, currently holds the lead with 47% to 44% for the current President Jair Bolsonaro, according to Brazilian election authorities.

Populist leader Bolsonaro has been endorsed by former U.S. President Donald Trump and former Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu.

Bolsonaro has been criticized for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and exit polls showed Silva ahead, The Associated Press reported.

However, Bolsonaro has also created a devoted base of followers through his support of conservative values.