Lula faces stronger opposition in Congress, experts say

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will face a more hostile Congress in his next term due to the strengthened opposition PL party, with experts saying agreements with the Centrão bloc will be decisive for governability. The PL will hold 28 Senate seats and 121 federal deputy seats from 2027, potentially blocking constitutional amendments. Experts note the Centrão, alarmed by the PL's power ambitions, may ally with the government, while internal PL divisions could also reduce opposition cohesion. The February 2027 elections for Senate and Chamber presidency will be the first test of political dynamics. Analysts suggest Lula may need to pursue popular proposals or mobilize civil society, as the Senate is expected to be particularly challenging.