Chamber of Deputies plenary during a session vote

Plenary of the Chamber of Deputies during an afternoon vote, with deputies seated and the electronic voting panel visible.

About this subject

The Chamber of Deputies, part of Brazil's National Congress, holds its plenary sessions at the Palácio do Congresso Nacional in Brasília. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the semicircular plenary has 513 seats, one for each federal deputy. During votes, an electronic panel displays each deputy's vote in real time, allowing instant results. Late-afternoon sessions are common, especially when the agenda is extensive or when provisional measures must be voted on before deadlines. The internal rules require nominal votes to be open and recorded, ensuring transparency. Party leaders and the President of the Board play key roles in conducting proceedings. The Chamber also broadcasts sessions live on TV Câmara and YouTube, enabling citizens to follow the legislative process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many deputies make up the Chamber of Deputies?

The Chamber of Deputies has 513 federal deputies, elected for four-year terms.

How does the electronic voting panel work?

The electronic panel displays each deputy's vote in real time, using colors to indicate yes, no, abstention, or obstruction, and the result updates automatically.

Are the Chamber sessions broadcast live?

Yes, sessions are broadcast live on TV Câmara, the official YouTube channel, and the Chamber's website, ensuring public access.