Brazil 2026 legislative election preparations

As Brazil approaches the 2026 general elections, focus has turned to the composition and functions of the national legislature. Approximately 85% of the current members of the Chamber of Deputies, or 437 out of 513, are seeking re-election. While many aim to retain their current seats, there is an increasing trend of deputies running for different offices, such as the Senate, state assemblies, or governorships. Experts suggest that the use of the Electoral Fund and parliamentary amendments provides incumbents with advantages in strengthening their local political standing.

In tandem with election preparations, details regarding legislative roles and compensation have been clarified. The Senate maintains distinct powers, including the authority to judge crimes committed by members of the Executive Branch and the Armed Forces, as well as the responsibility to approve or reject key appointments for the Supreme Federal Court and the Prosecutor General of the Republic. At the state level, monthly subsidies for state deputies are constitutionally capped at 75% of federal deputy salaries, with variations in actual pay observed across different states.