Today, how Brazil will position itself amid a contested U.S. election. Flawed employment data could mask the extent of the coronavirus crisis. And the president’s son faces money laundering charges.
Bolsonaro pledges ‘loyalty’ to Trump amid contested U.S. election
The U.S. presidential election remains too close to call — and could remain so for days, as vote counting continues in key battleground states. Prior to the first results, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro had told aides that it is politically important for his administration to show “loyalty” to President Donald Trump over former Vice President Joe Biden.
- Mr. Bolsonaro is acting against all advice. His allies have tried to convince him to follow the diplomatic tradition of not endorsing a candidate — especially in such a tight race that could end in court.
Why it matters. Brazilian officials in the U.S. are trying to build bridges with both candidates. But, as senior government officials, friends of the Bolsonaro family, and diplomats have told Brasília correspondent Débora Álvares, the president’s personality is “uncontrollable” and “unpredictable.”
- These officials fear that, should Mr. Biden win, Jair Bolsonaro could treat the U.S. like he treats China. Which could put Brazil at odds with its...