Trump Defends Bolsonaro, Calls Brazilian Charges a “Witch Hunt”
In a striking statement on Truth Social, President Donald Trump on Sunday came to the defense of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, calling the charges against him a “witch hunt” and denouncing Brazil’s treatment of its former leader as politically motivated.
“I have watched, as has the World, as they have done nothing but come after him, day after day… He is not guilty of anything, except having fought for THE PEOPLE,” Trump wrote.
It’s a clear echo of Trump’s own recurring narrative: that legal investigations against populist leaders are simply tools of political suppression. To be honest, it’s not the first time he’s linked his fate to others facing scrutiny abroad — from Netanyahu to Orban — but Bolsonaro may be the closest ideological mirror Trump sees in Latin America.
What’s Happening in Brazil?
Bolsonaro, currently barred from holding office until 2030 due to a ruling by Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court, has also faced mounting legal challenges over his alleged role in inciting the January 8, 2023 riot at Brazil’s Congress — an event that, in many ways, paralleled the U.S. Capitol riot of January 6, 2021.
Brazilian prosecutors allege that Bolsonaro attempted to overturn election results and sow distrust in the country’s democratic institutions — allegations Bolsonaro denies. As of mid-2025, multiple inquiries are ongoing, including investigations into a supposed plot to invalidate election results using a military decree (Reuters).
Polls suggest Bolsonaro retains significant popular support, particularly in Brazil’s southern and central states, and he continues to dominate headlines despite his formal political ban (Datafolha).
Trump’s Broader Message: A Warning
Trump’s commentary seems aimed not only at Brazil but also at what he perceives as a global trend: establishment pushback against nationalist or populist leaders. “This is nothing more, or less, than an attack on a Political Opponent — Something I know much about!” he posted, drawing a direct line between Bolsonaro’s legal troubles and his own indictments back home.
Whether this intervention influences Brazil’s political atmosphere is unclear. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has largely avoided direct public sparring with Trump, but analysts suggest Trump’s remarks could energize Bolsonaro’s base or raise tensions ahead of Brazil’s next election cycle.
The Verdict? Not Yet
Trump concluded his post with a blunt demand: “LEAVE BOLSONARO ALONE.” It’s a rallying cry that will likely resonate with supporters of both men.
But to be fair, the reality on the ground in Brazil is more complex. And as with many things in global politics today, the trial isn’t just in the courtroom — it’s in the court of public opinion.
And that, perhaps, is where Trump is aiming his message most.
