Brazilian Governor Raquel Lyra cuts driving program funding, while ex‑first lady Michelle Bolsonaro leaves PL Mulher

Governor Raquel Lyra (PSD) of Pernambuco reallocated R$ 25 million from the State Traffic Department (Detran) to service state debt, cutting R$ 3.6 million from the CNH Popular scheme. The move represents a 52 percent reduction in the free‑driver‑license program that was created in 2007 for low‑income families, Bolsa Família recipients and other vulnerable groups. The 2025 budget now foresees only R$ 3.1 million for the initiative.

Former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro formally resigned from the PL Mulher women's wing on 15 July, handing over its social‑media accounts to the party’s national leadership. She had stepped down from the post on 30 June after a personal dispute with her son‑in‑law, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro. The party allocated R$ 11 million to PL Mulher for 2026, and party officials say the budget may even increase despite concerns about reduced funding.

Both developments unfold amid broader political turbulence in Brazil, including debates over budget priorities and internal party dynamics.