Dados is one of the most widely-read social sciences journals in Latin America. Created in 1966, it publishes innovative works, originating from academic research, by Brazilian and foreign authors. Edited by IESP-UERJ, it aims to reconcile scientific rigor and academic excellence with an emphasis on public debate based on the analysis of substantive issues of society and politics.
Dados vol. 52 n. 4 Rio de Janeiro 2009
Abstract
This article discusses the impact of electoral dynamics on partisan political behavior in the Brazilian Congressional arena. Based on an analysis of voting and electoral alliances, the author shows that Presidential elections became efficient and influenced the parties' performance and alignments in Congressional disputes. She then proceeds to argue that repeat contestants in Presidential races behave more coherently and in a more disciplined way in the Congressional arena in order to maximize their party's electoral value, which is not expected of one-time Presidential contestants. The findings show that the partisan approach underlying the behavior of party leadership and delegations in the Brazilian Congress is explained by the electoral and organizational dynamics, and not only by centralization of the decision-making process.
Keywords: Chamber of Deputies, National Senate, Brazilian elections, electoral alliances, Congressional behavior
DOI: 10.1590/S0011-52582009000400004
The Impact of electoral dynamics on partisan political behavior in the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies and National Senate
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