Bolsonaro Praises Trump in Recent Interview
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro labeled President Donald Trump as “passionate” and expressed that Trump treated him “like a brother.” This statement came during an interview with a Brazilian outlet, Poder 360, marking Bolsonaro’s first public appearance since a Brazilian prosecutor called for his conviction in an ongoing trial related to alleged attempts to overturn the results of the 2022 election.
During the interview on Tuesday evening, Bolsonaro discussed various topics, including his friendship with Trump, Brazil’s tariffs on imports to the U.S., and the political landscape as Brazil gears up for the 2026 presidential election. The conversation was streamed live on YouTube.
Bolsonaro stated, “I’m passionate about him [Trump], about the people of America, about the politics of America, about the nation that is America. I have never denied that since I was a boy. Trump always knew that. He treated me like a brother.” He also expressed deep gratitude for their relationship, emphasizing their collaboration on numerous initiatives during his presidency.
Having served from 2019 to 2022, Bolsonaro faced a narrow defeat to left-wing candidate Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in a contentious election. Over the years, he has occasionally signaled support for Trump, including wearing a red MAGA hat and celebrating Trump’s potential 2024 bid. Images linking Bolsonaro to Trump often emerge, underscoring their connection beyond Brazilian borders.
Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court has accused Bolsonaro of conspiring with over 30 others in an alleged coup attempt that sought to change the 2022 election results. Bolsonaro has denied these allegations and maintains he is innocent. His legal team is expected to present their closing arguments in the upcoming weeks.
This trial is just one of several legal challenges Bolsonaro and his family face following his departure from office, as investigations led by Judge Alexandre de Moraes begin to unfold. These legal issues also include a ban on his eligibility to run for office until 2030.
His passport, which was seized during the investigations, effectively prevents him from leaving Brazil. Bolsonaro recently requested it back temporarily to attend Trump’s inauguration, a request that was denied. Meanwhile, his son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, has sought asylum, claiming political persecution in Brazil.
In recent days, Trump expressed support for Bolsonaro via a message on his website, criticizing the actions of Brazil’s judiciary against the former president. Trump referred to the situation as a “witch hunt,” especially concerning the upcoming 50% tariff on Brazilian goods effective from August 1.
Bolsonaro opposed this tariff increase and suggested he could help mediate between Brazil and the U.S. if given the opportunity to speak directly with Trump. “I’m against that, and my son Eduardo is as well. But Brazil continues to drift left. Lula’s talk often feels nonsensical,” he remarked.
He also mentioned, “This 50% tariff could be reduced. I believe I can help solve part of this issue, but I need the freedom to talk to Trump. Right now, I don’t even have a passport.” In a detailed report, Tarcisio de Freitas, Governor of São Paulo and a supporter of Bolsonaro, recently approached the court for permission for Bolsonaro to travel to meet with Trump to negotiate on tariffs. This request was rejected by the court.
Despite speculation, Bolsonaro reiterated that he has no plans to leave Brazil. In March, he dismissed the idea of seeking asylum in the U.S. like his son has done. “I’m 70 years old, dealing with various health issues. How would I manage to go to another country?” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to remain in Brazil.
