Good morning! This week, we talk about the latest scandal involving the Bolsonaro family. Why Lula could ax his first cabinet member (and how it could affect him in Congress). And the state of Brazilian democracy.
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Bolsonaro tried to smuggle diamonds for his first lady
Since leaving the presidency at the turn of the year, Jair Bolsonaro has been dogged by allegations that paint a picture of a politician as petty as they come. They range from lavish spending on the government credit card at fancy grocery stores to First Lady Michelle Bolsonaro draining water from a reflecting pool outside the presidential residence to collect the coins people toss in when they make a wish. And the latest such scandal is incredibly on brand.
- In 2021, members of his administration attempted to smuggle a jewelry case given to Mrs. Bolsonaro by the government of Saudi Arabia, containing a necklace, a watch, cufflinks, a pen, and diamonds — valued at more than USD 3.17 million.
What happened. A Brazilian delegation, led by Brazil’s...