The Intelligence from The Economist Losing the plot: Brazil-US relations tested
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Sep 15, 2025 
Hal Hodson, the editor of the America section at The Economist, discusses the fallout from Jair Bolsonaro's recent sentencing and the resulting tensions in Brazil-US relations. He highlights Donald Trump's allegations of a 'witch hunt' and explores how this verdict impacts diplomatic dynamics. Additionally, Hodson touches on the rise of niche sports like padel and tag, which are garnering sponsorship and changing the landscape of athletic competition despite the challenges of audience engagement.
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Son Lobbies From Texas
- Eduardo Bolsonaro moved to Texas to lobby for his father and appeared to gain traction in Washington.
- Donald Trump views Bolsonaro as a compatriot and likely sees parallels with his own January 6th experience.
Expect Appeals But Not Reversal
- Bolsonaro's legal team will appeal once the court publishes its written ruling and will have five days to file.
- Expect appeals, possible amnesty bills, or pardons, but these are unlikely to overturn the conviction.
Lula's Comparison To Trump
- President Lula publicly compared Trump to those who would be prosecuted in Brazil for similar actions.
- Brazilians celebrated that their judiciary acted where the U.S. judiciary did not.