Brazil Congress backs shorter working week as Lula eyes election victory

The measure, which passed in the lower house, represents a significant legislative victory for the leftist president as he prepares for a closely contested election runoff scheduled for within days. The shorter working week has long been a priority for Lula's political base and labor union allies, who view it as essential social reform.

Lula's political team believes the approval demonstrates his government's ability to deliver on campaign promises, potentially swaying undecided voters in the competitive runoff election. The timing of the legislative success provides the incumbent with momentum heading into the final stretch of campaigning.

The working week reduction aligns with Lula's broader agenda of strengthening workers' rights and improving quality of life for Brazil's middle and working classes. Congressional approval underscores the administration's legislative strength in the lower house, where supporters maintained sufficient backing to advance the contentious measure.

The proposal now moves forward in Brazil's legislative process, though implementation details and any Senate modifications remain subject to further debate. The measure reflects ongoing political divisions in Congress over labor policy and economic priorities as the nation approaches its electoral decision.