Most Brazilian voters do not remember whom they supported for congressional seats during the 2022 elections, according to a Datafolha survey.

The findings highlight a significant gap in voter engagement between high-profile executive roles and the legislative bodies that shape national law. This disconnect may influence how candidates campaign for parliamentary seats in future election cycles.

Datafolha conducted the survey on June 17 and 18 in 139 cities across Brazil [4, 5]. The poll sampled 1,898 voters aged 20 or older [4].

The results show a stark contrast in recall rates. While 85% of respondents remember their vote for president, only 23% recall their choice for federal deputy [1, 2]. This 23% figure also applies to those who remember their votes for senators, and state deputies [1].

Beyond specific voting history, the survey measured general awareness of current officials. Datafolha said that a majority of Brazilians cannot name any sitting deputies or senators. Specifically, 75% of respondents could not spontaneously cite a single senator currently in office [3].

Other reporting suggests varying levels of forgetfulness regarding legislative choices. While some data emphasizes the 23% recall rate, other reports indicate that roughly two in three voters — approximately 66% — do not remember their choices for federal deputy, state deputy, and senator.

"85% of voters remember the vote for president, but only 23% remember the choice for federal deputy," Datafolha said [2].

“85% of respondents remember their vote for president, only 23% recall their choice for federal deputy.”

The disparity between presidential and congressional recall suggests that Brazilian political identity is heavily centered on personality-driven executive leadership rather than legislative representation. This lack of parliamentary recognition indicates a potential vulnerability for sitting legislators, as voters may lack a strong personal or performance-based connection to their representatives when returning to the polls.