Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced late Friday that Brazil’s Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes, along with his “court allies” and relatives, have had their visas revoked amid an ongoing “political witch hunt” targeting former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro.
Rubio, who also serves as President Trump’s national security adviser, asserted that his administration will continue to hold accountable those responsible for censoring protected expressions in the U.S. on his post on Social Platform X.
He added, “The political witch hunt led by Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes has fostered an environment of persecution and censorship against Jair Bolsonaro, fundamentally violating the rights of Brazilians and affecting Americans as well.”
“Consequently, I directed the court to cancel the visas for Moraes and his allies, as well as their close relatives,” the Secretary of State remarked.
This announcement followed closely behind a statement from Brazil’s highest court, which issued suppression orders and search warrants against Bolsonaro, effectively preventing him from communicating with foreign officials. Authorities have placed ankle monitors on him following police actions at his home.
Moraes ruled against Bolsonaro on Friday, alleging attempts to overturn the 2022 presidential election, citing concerns that Bolsonaro might attempt to flee the country.
Last week, Trump escalated pressure on Brazil, threatening tariffs on South American countries regarding Bolsonaro’s ongoing prosecution related to election fraud claims.
In a recent interview with Reuters, Bolsonaro expressed feelings of humiliation, saying, “I’m 70. I’ve been the president of the Republic for four years.”
He and several of his allies are accused of pursuing politically motivated charges since their defeat in the 2022 election against current President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva. Additionally, Bolsonaro is barred from seeking office until 2030.
