Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, declared himself the leader of Brazil after fleeing to Miami following his loss in the presidential election. The 45-year-old senator, who arrived in Florida on Wednesday, has faced criticism from Brazilian media for his claim, which is seen as a challenge to the legitimacy of the election.
Bolsonaro, who had been granted humanitarian visas in the US, arrived in Miami after evading a Supreme Court order to surrender his passports. He thanked Argentine president Javier Milei and US President Donald Trump for their assistance in his escape, and issued a letter in which he denied fleeing Brazil, instead stating he left to protect his family and avoid a witch hunt.
Brazil's three major newspapers have labeled Bolsonaro's declaration as 'coup-mongering,' highlighting the controversy surrounding his claims of electoral fraud. Despite the rejection of his allegations by Brazil's electoral court and international observers, Bolsonaro's party has acknowledged the legitimacy of the election results.
Bolsonaro's move to the US has raised concerns in Washington, with reports suggesting a potential rift with Brazil's largest economy, which is a key player in the global rare earths market. The situation underscores the complex political and legal challenges facing Brazil following the election, as well as the potential implications for US-Brazil relations.