Brazilian Electoral Campaign Ends as Elections Approach with Strict Voting Day Rules

As Brazil's first round of elections draws near on October 4, 2026, the country is preparing for the participation of approximately 158.7 million voters. Significant deadlines have arrived, marking the end of various campaign activities, while detailed guidelines have been set to govern conduct on voting day to ensure a smooth and orderly election process.

Today, October 1, is the final day for free electoral propaganda on radio and television, which began on August 28. Paid propaganda on the internet also concludes today, while print media ads and online reproductions have until October 2 to continue. Campaign rallies (comícios) are permitted until midnight tonight, with the option to extend until 2 AM on October 2; meanwhile, the use of sound equipment is strictly limited to midnight. On October 3, the eve of the election, parties may use sound amplifiers between 8 AM and 10 PM but must observe a 200-meter buffer zone around key public buildings.

Strict rules govern Election Day activities. Voters may wear campaign shirts or use stickers to express political preferences individually and quietly, but collective or noisy demonstrations are prohibited. Use of cell phones or recording devices inside voting booths is banned to maintain ballot secrecy and prevent coercion. However, voters can bring a handwritten note listing candidate names and numbers.

The electronic voting process will proceed with choices in this order: federal deputies (4 digits), state deputies (5 digits), first and second senators (3 digits each), governor (2 digits), and president (2 digits). Workers are entitled to leave their jobs to vote without salary deductions. Priority voting is given to those over 80 years old, and voters with disabilities may receive assistance from a person of their choice.

Accepted identification documents include official photo IDs in either physical or digital format, even if expired, as long as they verify the voter's identity.

These regulations, established by the Tribunal Superior Eleitoral, seek to guarantee a transparent electoral process, respecting voters' rights while maintaining public order.