Erika Hilton, lawmaker: ‘There could be a coup in Brazil. This time within the law, not like that horror show’

A trans woman who is the top female vote-getter in the country talks to EL PAÍS about the left’s sprint to get Lula re-elected at the runoff vote this Sunday

Erika Hilton, lawmaker: ‘There could be a coup in Brazil. This time within the law, not like that horror show’
Deputy Erika Hilton in her campaign office in São Paulo, October 13.

While the keynote speaker is closing the rally, her own fans are waiting for her at the back exit. Dozens of young people press onto the road, cell phones in hand. As she appears among the crowd, pandemonium breaks out. There are excited screams — everyone wants a selfie. The lawmaker walks confidently on stiletto heels. Escorted by three bodyguards, her straight, caramel-colored hair stands out in the throng. She twists her body to pose with this person and that one. She smiles. She advances slowly, head held high, toward the black car, followed by her own cameraman. “Erika, Erika, Erika…,” they chant. Erika Hilton, 33, steps into the armored vehicle and disappears into this drizzly São Paulo night.

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Erika Hilton at a Workers Party rally in Largo da Batata  on October 13, 2026.Erika Hilton posters at a Workers Party rally in Largo da Batata on October 13.Erika Hilton greets her supporters at the Workers’ Party rally.The deputy at the rally.Erika Hilton during an interview in Largo da Batata on October 13.Hilton next to a painting in her office.