Economist Podcasts Losing the plot: Brazil-US relations tested
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Sep 15, 2025 
Andrew Miller, the writer of the backstory column for The Economist, dives into Brazil's political upheaval following Jair Bolsonaro's conviction for coup attempts. He discusses the implications for U.S.-Brazil relations amid Trump's allegations of a “witch hunt.” Miller also explores the rising popularity of niche sports like padel and tag, emphasizing their growing influence through sponsorships and streaming. The chat delves into the competition in sports and evolving class dynamics in storytelling, shedding light on societal changes.
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Conviction Reshapes Brazil Politics
- Jair Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years for organising a coup and enlisting officials, a rare conviction for a former president.
- The ruling marks a major shift in Brazil's politics and affects its relationship with the United States.
US Swiftly Condemns Ruling
- The U.S. (under Trump) quickly denounced the conviction as a "witch hunt" and promised to respond.
- Washington frames its reaction as defending free speech and support for Bolsonaro.
Unusual Use Of Sanctions
- The US reaction included threats of tariffs and Magnitsky sanctions against the presiding judge Alejandro de Moraes.
- Placing Magnitsky sanctions on a Supreme Court judge in a robust democracy is highly unusual.