TSE clarifies that blank and null votes do not invalidate elections

The Superior Electoral Court (TSE) has clarified that blank and null votes do not invalidate an election, even if they constitute more than 50% of the total votes cast. While these votes are recorded for statistical purposes, they are excluded from the calculation of valid votes used to determine election results.

In the Brazilian electoral system, a blank vote is cast by pressing the ‘Branco’ button, whereas a null vote occurs when an invalid number is entered. Neither option transfers support to any candidate or party. According to Article 77 of the Federal Constitution, only valid votes—those cast for specific candidates or parties—participate in the final tally to decide winners.

For the upcoming 2026 elections, voters will select various officials, including the President of the Republic, governors, senators, and deputies. While blank and null votes are neutral, voters also have the option to cast a party vote (voto de legenda) in proportional elections by entering only the first two digits of a party's identification number, which is considered a valid vote.