For several years, parallels between Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro and former U.S. President Donald Trump were impossible to ignore. Things may change now that Trump has been reelected and Bolsonario has been indicted, together with 37 collaborators, for a coup attempt against current Brazil's president, Lula da Silva.
However, there is no deniying that for years they were political twins with a curious relationship.
Trump and Bolsonaro emerged during the second part of the 2010's as emblematic leaders of a far-right wave, propelled by a mix of anti-establishment rhetoric, nationalist fervor, and a deep connection with their base. Both rode to power on a wave of discontent with traditional politics, mobilizing evangelical voters and influential business allies while leveraging the rapid dissemination of misinformation on social media.
Their political strategies also frequently intersected. From dismissing climate change as a globalist ploy to openly defying public health measures during the pandemic, both leaders framed themselves as outsiders fighting the so-called liberal elite. They used their platforms to launch scathing critiques against the press, public institutions, and educational systems, painting these entities as enemies of their nationalist visions.
This kinship has not only been implied but explicitly stated. Bolsonaro and Trump have often referred to each other as ideological allies, united in their opposition to what they see as the dominance of Western liberal values.
Trump has publicly praised Bolsonaro on numerous occasions. He offered his endorsement ahead of Brazil's national 2022 elections. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, "'Tropical Trump,' as he is affectionately called, has done a GREAT job for the wonderful people of Brazil. When I was President of the U.S., there was no other country leader who called me more than Jair." He also posted a video singing his praises to support Bolsonaro's failed efforts to return to the Itamaraty Palace.
The admiration has been mutual. Bolsonaro has repeatedly highlighted Trump's leadership as a model to emulate, calling him a "champion of freedom" and a "defender of traditional values." In interviews, Bolsonaro has even described their relationship as more than just political, noting that he values Trump as a personal ally.
Ahead of the November 2024 election, Bolsonaro went all out to support Trump:
EXCLUSIVE: A message from former Brazilian President @jairbolsonaro ahead of the 2024 Presidential Election
— Eric Spracklen🦆🐈 (@EricSpracklen) November 3, 2024
“Elections in the United States, the most democratic country in the world.
In scene the largest conservative leader in modern time: Donald Trump.
How was the world under… pic.twitter.com/O9vfqknFFB
In the annals of contemporary politics, few alliances have been as emblematic and influential. They have significantly influenced conservative movements across the Americas. This narrative delves into the pivotal moments of their partnership, highlighting their interactions and the ways they have bolstered each other's political endeavors.
The public encounters of Trump and Bolsonaro
March 19, 2019: Bolsonaro's Inaugural Visit to the White House
Shortly after his inauguration, President Jair Bolsonaro embarked on his first bilateral foreign trip to the United States. The anticipation was palpable as he approached the White House, a symbol of the alliance he sought to strengthen. During their meeting, both leaders emphasized their commitment to fortifying economic ties and addressing regional security concerns, particularly in Venezuela. Bolsonaro expressed his admiration for Trump's leadership, stating, "We have a great deal in common... I have been highly criticized for this but I will not, of course, deny what I do think."
June 28, 2019: G20 Summit in Osaka
The bustling city of Osaka set the stage for the G20 Summit, where Trump and Bolsonaro convened for a bilateral meeting. Amidst the backdrop of international diplomacy, their discussions centered on trade and security partnerships. Bolsonaro, reflecting on the meeting, noted, "We are aligned in our efforts to ensure prosperity and security for our people."
March 7, 2020: Dinner at Mar-a-Lago
In the opulent setting of Mar-a-Lago, Trump's Florida resort, the two leaders shared a working dinner. The ambiance was both formal and convivial, reflecting their growing camaraderie. Discussions spanned trade agreements, Middle Eastern peace efforts, and the ongoing Venezuelan crisis. Bolsonaro referred to Trump as a "great friend," highlighting their shared values and political goals.
Then there were those support videos.
November 6, 2024: Eduardo Bolsonaro at Mar-a-Lago
On the night of Trump's re-election victory, Bolsonaro's son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, was among the exclusive guests at Mar-a-Lago even though his embattled father was already banned from seeking reelection until 2030 for undermining the trust on the Brazilian electoral system.
Eduardo, accompanied by former Brazilian officials, used the occasion to strengthen ties with Trump's team. He described Trump's victory as a signal of hope for conservative movements worldwide, stating, "This is not just an American victory; it's a win for all who believe in liberty and traditional values."
BREAKING: Eduardo Bolsonaro passará a noite de apuração da eleição junto com Donald Trump. @BolsonaroSP pic.twitter.com/ZK3bH2VfqB
— Isentões (@lsentoes1) November 5, 2024
Parallel Challenges: Legal and Political Hurdles
Both Trump and Bolsonaro have faced significant legal and political challenges. In 2023, Brazil's electoral court barred Bolsonaro from running for office, citing misconduct during his re-election campaign. Bolsonaro often drew parallels between his situation and Trump's legal battles in the U.S., stating, "What happens there often mirrors what happens here."
Not this time though. As Trump marches towards the White House, Bolsonaro is now awaiting for the Brazilian Supreme Federal Court to decide on his destiny. If found guilty, he could face up to 30 years in jail.
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