A new poll indicates public support for Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva has fallen during a corruption scandal in his administration.
A public opinion survey released Tuesday shows Mr. Lula's approval rating falling to 46.7 percent, down from 50 percent in a similar poll in September.
The poll also showed President Lula would lose an election to San Paulo Mayor Jose Serra if the vote were held today. Presidential elections are scheduled for next year.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Antonio Palocci appeared before Congress for the second time in two weeks to defend his policies in the face of allegations he accepted illegal contributions while serving as mayor of the city of Ribeirao Preto.
Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters.