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Brazil electoral rules restrict paid influencer campaigning for 2026
As Brazil approaches the 2026 elections, the role of digital influencers is becoming a central element of political debate. With over 10 million influencers on Instagram, Brazil holds the second-largest influencer population globally, trailing only the United States.
According to the Digital News Report 2026 by the Reuters Institute and Oxford University, 53% of Brazilians use social media and video platforms to access news weekly, with 33% receiving content from influencers focused on news and politics. This shift highlights the growing influence of social media compared to traditional radio and television.
To maintain electoral integrity, the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) has established strict guidelines under Resolution 23.755/2026. Legislative consultant Rodrigo Marengo notes that while influencers may express political preferences on personal channels, any participation in electoral propaganda must be entirely free of charge. It is strictly prohibited for candidates, parties, or federations to hire influencers, offer prizes, or provide any financial benefits. Additionally, paid boosting of content promoting specific candidates is forbidden to preserve freedom of expression while preventing unfair advantages.
Entities
Brazil · Issaaf Karhawi · Nielsen · Reuters Institute · TSE · University of São Paulo
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] 33% of Brazilians receive content from creators or influencers who focus primarily on news. portaldiarioderondonia.com · es1.com.br · nx1.com.br
- [● 3 SOURCES] Brazil ranks second globally in the number of Instagram influencers, following the United States. portaldiarioderondonia.com · es1.com.br · nx1.com.br
- [● 3 SOURCES] 53% of Brazilians use social networks and video platforms to access news weekly. portaldiarioderondonia.com · es1.com.br · nx1.com.br
- [● 3 SOURCES] Brazil has more than 10 million influencers with at least 1,000 followers on Instagram. portaldiarioderondonia.com · es1.com.br · nx1.com.br
- [● 3 SOURCES] Digital influencers must take responsibility for the space they occupy, especially regarding information care during elections. portaldiarioderondonia.com · es1.com.br · nx1.com.br