Previously, President Trump lashed out against the government of Brasil led by Brazilian president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, saying, “Brazil is doing a terrible thing on their treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro. I have watched, as has the World, as they have done nothing but come after him, day after day, night after night, month after month, year after year! He is not guilty of anything, except having fought for THE PEOPLE. I have gotten to know Jair Bolsonaro, and he was a strong Leader, who truly loved his Country — Also, a very tough negotiator on TRADE. His Election was very close and now, he is leading in the Polls. This is nothing more, or less, than an attack on a Political Opponent — Something I know much about!

President Trump then announces a 50% baseline tariff rate against Brazil.  This is a strategic gamble for President Trump in that Jair Bolsonaro is effectively banned from running in the next election, and leftist Lula da Silva could benefit from an increased surge in nationalistic sentiment similar to the Canada election.

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