Bolsonaro: Is it all over for the 'Trump of the Tropics'?
Feb 21, 2025
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Ione Wells, BBC South America correspondent, provides keen insights on Jair Bolsonaro's tumultuous political landscape. She discusses Bolsonaro's legal battles, including coup charges and a ban from future elections, drawing parallels to Trump's situation. The podcast dives into Bolsonaro's polarizing leadership and the consequences of his controversial policies on Brazilian democracy. Additionally, Wells explores how Trump's narrative of political persecution may resonate with Bolsonaro's supporters, hinting at the complex dynamics of their political futures.
Bolsonaro's rise in Brazilian politics is marked by a populist military background, appealing to voters disillusioned with corruption and crime.
Despite facing significant legal challenges and being barred from office, Bolsonaro retains a loyal supporter base that perceives him as politically persecuted.
Deep dives
The Rise of Jair Bolsonaro
Jair Bolsonaro gained prominence in Brazilian politics through his socially conservative populist platform, appealing to voters disillusioned with crime and corruption. His background in the military, coupled with years in Congress, paved the way for his presidential victory in 2018, which was seen as a desire for change after multiple leftist administrations. Bolsonaro’s controversial rhetoric often included attacks on political correctness and homophobic remarks, capturing the attention of the international media, especially after a stabbing incident during his campaign that galvanized his support base. This blend of military credibility and populism positioned him as a unique figure in Brazilian politics, similar to other populist leaders around the world.
Bolsonaro’s Controversial Presidency
During his presidency, Bolsonaro implemented policies that polarized the nation, such as slashing environmental protections in the Amazon, which pleased agribusiness supporters but sparked outrage among environmental activists. He also faced criticism for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, as Brazil experienced one of the highest death tolls globally, yet he dismissed the virus's seriousness, calling it 'a little flu.' His administration's focus on cash handout programs for the poorest did earn him some support, yet his overall approach amidst the pandemic resulted in a significant backlash. This divisive governance and his positions on social issues led to a passionate following, as well as fierce opposition.
Legal Troubles and Future Implications
Following his defeat in the 2022 election, Bolsonaro has faced serious legal challenges, including charges relating to an alleged coup plot and attempts to undermine Brazil’s electoral system. He was barred from holding office until 2030 after allegations of election fraud casting, although there are discussions about potentially reducing this ban. Recent accusations include his involvement in orchestrating unrest following the election loss, where protests mirrored events from the January 6th Capitol riots in the US. Despite these serious allegations, Bolsonaro still maintains a substantial base of supporters who view him as a victim of political persecution, indicating his possible resurgence depending on legal outcomes.
With President Trump back in the White House, his Brazilian former counterpart Jair Bolsonaro is attempting his own return to high office. Bolsonaro has been nicknamed the 'Trump of the Tropics' but he is facing a lot of hurdles to reclaim his position. He has been barred from standing in the next election by the courts and he has been charged with planning a coup.
Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's South America correspondent Ione Wells. They discuss the close relationship between Trump and Bolsonaro and ask whether or not Brazil’s former president might ever be able to return to office.
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(Picture: Headshot of Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Credit: Adriano Machado/Reuters)
Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Beth Timmins
Sound engineer: Mike Regaard
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: China Collins
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