U.S. Lawmakers Condemn Bolsonaro Conviction, Threaten Retaliation
WASHINGTON – The United States is signaling strong disapproval of the conviction of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, wiht prominent lawmakers vowing repercussions and alleging political persecution. Senator Marco Rubio publicly denounced the ruling, characterizing it as a troubling progress for democratic norms.
The escalating tensions follow a Thursday decision by Brazil‘s Supreme Court to sentence Bolsonaro to 27 years and three months in prison for conspiring against the country’s democratic order following his 2022 election defeat to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The conviction has triggered a swift response from Washington, raising concerns about the potential impact on U.S.-Brazil relations and trade. This case arrives amid existing trade disputes, including a 50 percent tariff imposed by former President Donald Trump on numerous Brazilian exports in response to the proceedings against Bolsonaro – a measure the Lula administration has rejected.
Previously, Donald Trump expressed “surprise” at the conviction and defended Bolsonaro as a “good man.” The current administration has taken further action, sanctioning and barring Judge Alexandre de Moraes, the lead investigator in the Bolsonaro case, from entering the United States, accusing him of conducting a ”witch hunt.”
The conviction stems from Bolsonaro’s alleged attempts to undermine the election results and incite the January 8, 2023, assault on Brazil’s presidential offices, parliament, and Supreme Court by ultra-right activists. Lula da Silva was officially inaugurated on January 1, 2023, just days before the violent attacks.
The unfolding situation presents a significant diplomatic challenge for both countries, with potential ramifications for regional stability and economic partnerships. Further U.S. responses are anticipated as the legal process in Brazil continues.
