Why?

That is a simple question... Why is Trump backing former Brazilian president? Why does Trump want to slap a 50% tariffs on Brazil? Right now we are exporting to Brazil more than we are import and that trade surplus will disappear because Brazil with stick a tariff on our goods. So why is Trump doing this?

Trump threatens Brazil with massive 50% tariff, citing "Witch Hunt" against ex-president Bolsonaro

CBS News

By Joe Walsh

July 10, 2025

President Trump said Wednesday he would impose a 50% tariff on goods from Brazil next month, one of the steepest rates for any U.S. trading partner, citing the criminal prosecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, which Mr. Trump called an "international disgrace."

Mr. Trump has sent open letters to about 20 countries this week — ranging from Japan to Iraq — telling them to expect higher tariffs starting Aug. 1, after delaying his sweeping tariffs against dozens of nations in April. So far, the 50% tariff on Brazilian imports is the highest rate threatened against any country, and Brazil is the only country to get hit with a tariff this week after being spared by Mr. Trump's April "Liberation Day" tariffs.

[...]

Bolsonaro was indicted last year for allegedly attempting a coup to remain in office after Lula defeated him in the 2022 elections. The plan allegedly included dozens of people and involved a plot to poison Lula and shoot a Brazilian Supreme Court justice. Bolsonaro's defense team has vehemently denied the charges. Bolsonaro has also been barred from running for office until 2030, after casting doubt on the country's electronic voting machines.

So Bolsonaro tried a overturn the government, he staged a coup attempt... just like Trump. Could that be the reason Trump likes him?

Mr. Trump has long expressed support for Bolsonaro, a right-wing populist sometimes known as "Trump of the Tropics." He also lashed out at Brazil over the prosecution on Monday, calling it a "terrible thing" and an "attack on a Political Opponent."

"LEAVE BOLSONARO ALONE!" Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social on Monday.

Why is he so gung-ho about Bolsonaro could it be that Trump and Bolsonaro share a strong bond rooted in a populist, nationalist worldview.

Maybe because if his ego that Trump is supporting him, praising Trump as a role model, championing "Make All Americas Great Again" sure boost Trump narcissism! Could it possible be because both of them are surfing the broader wave in global right-wing populism.

BBC wrote;

Both men subsequently lost presidential elections and both refused to publicly acknowledge defeat.

Bolsonaro, who governed Brazil between 2019 and 2022, is standing trial for allegedly attempting a coup with thousands of his supporters storming government buildings in the capital in January 2023 after Lula was victorious in the election.

Bolsonaro was in the United States at the time and has denied any links to the rioters or any involvement in the plot.

Earlier this week, Trump had compared Bolsonaro's prosecution to the legal cases he has similarly faced.

"This is nothing more, or less, than an attack on a Political Opponent - Something I know much about!" Trump had said. In response, Bolsonaro thanked the US president for his support.

From one would-be dictator to another... I have your back!