Brazil’s Supreme Court convicted Jair Bolsonaro of plotting a coup after losing the 2022 election.
Three of five justices found him guilty on five counts; one justice still must cast a vote.
Justice Cármen Lúcia ruled for conviction Thursday, after Justice Luiz Fux voted to acquit him entirely.
The court will decide Bolsonaro’s sentence after all five votes, potentially imposing decades in prison.
Political Tensions Escalate
The ruling deepens Brazil’s political divide and may trigger backlash from the United States government.
Donald Trump called the trial a “witch hunt” and tied tariffs on Brazilian goods to Bolsonaro’s legal issues.
Observers warn Washington might impose additional sanctions, straining already fragile diplomatic ties.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes called Bolsonaro the head of a coup plot and a criminal organization.
Bolsonaro Appeals and Retains Influence
Bolsonaro remains under house arrest since early August for violating a political messaging ban.
He sent lawyers to defend him instead of attending the hearing personally and denied all wrongdoing.
His lawyers pledged to appeal to the full Supreme Court of 11 justices.
Supporters rallied for his acquittal while opponents praised the court’s decision for accountability.
Despite his conviction and a 2030 ban from running, Bolsonaro still holds political influence.
He is expected to name a political heir to challenge President Lula da Silva next year.
Allied lawmakers, including his three sons, may push Congress to seek amnesty for him.
