VOTE FOR BATMAN

As election day draws near, Brazilian voters are considering candidates with names like James Bond and Wolverine. Brazilian law allows politicians to run for office under assumed names, and many choose pop-culture references. Among the thousands of candidates in municipal races across the country are five Batmans and 16 Obamas, as well as a Ladi Gaga and an Elvis Didn’t Die. “Using nicknames is an easy way to draw attention,” political consultant Justino Pereira told The New York Times, “but doesn’t necessarily make a lasting effect.” Christ of Jerusalem, for example, lost in 2008.