Government

Government Brazil is a federative republic made up of 26 states and one federal district (Brasília). Technically, each state is autonomous with a legislative body and elected governor, but the federal government reserves all rights not delegated to the state. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is head of state and government. A 1997 constitutional amendment allows presidents, governors, and mayors to run for two consecutive terms. The National Congress has an 81-seat Federal Senate and a 513-seat Chamber of Deputies. Voting is universal and compulsory for ages 19 to 70. It is optional for 16- to 18-year olds and those older than 70.