While many observers doubted that Lula would run again, there was always the possibility that the charismatic former President wouldn't be able to resist one more campaign.
However, any thoughts that he may have had along those lines were probably ended by revelations that have come out during the investigation of the "Mensalão" scandal. While there hasn't yet been a definitive link between Lula and the scandal, former government officials implicated in the scandal have alleged that they were acting upon his direction.
Lula's announcement of support for Dilma's re-election is seen as an early sign of party unity and it effectively kicks off the campaign, which is officially prohibited from beginning until 3 months prior to the election itself.
Not to be left out, Lula's own predecessor and on-again, off-again rival, Fernando Henrique Cardoso spoke at an event in Belo Horizonte, criticizing Dilma and the PT, saying, "they think Brazil started now, but that's not true. In my government I changed the course of Brazil."
In spite of economic growth that has not matched what took place under Lula, Dilma continues to have very high approval ratings (in the 70% range), and as of now, is seen as the favorite.
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