Brazilian Politics: Flávio Bolsonaro Arrives in U.S. After Election Loss
The former presidential candidate entered the country days after his father's defeat, with State Department officials confirming visa issuance for the family.
By Jabari Long ·
Former Brazilian presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro has landed in the United States, according to two sources familiar with the matter. His arrival marks a rapid departure from Brazil just two days after incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defeated Jair Bolsonaro in Sunday's runoff election. The move places the Bolsonaro family in U.S. territory while Brazilian authorities continue to examine the circumstances of their exit.
A senior State Department official told ABC News on Tuesday that the department would allow Bolsonaro and his family to enter the country. The official stated that visas would be issued to facilitate their arrival. This decision followed reports that Bolsonaro had already left Brazil, prompting immediate inquiry from domestic officials regarding the timing and logistics of the move.
Brazilian authorities confirmed they were unaware of Flávio Bolsonaro's specific whereabouts upon his departure. Officials familiar with the investigation said they are currently determining whether the candidate fled to the U.S. The timing of the exit, occurring immediately after the election result, has drawn scrutiny from both domestic and international observers.
Jair Bolsonaro, the father of the arriving candidate, faces ongoing legal inquiries in Brazil. Authorities are investigating a sports betting case and a probe into the production of a film about his life. These investigations continue while the former president and his son are outside the country, creating a distinct dynamic for the ongoing judicial processes.
U.S. officials indicated that the Trump administration had been tracking Flávio Bolsonaro's plans prior to his departure. Two U.S. officials familiar with the matter said the administration expected the candidate to attempt to exit Brazil and head to the United States. This prior knowledge allowed for the expedited visa process described by State Department personnel.
President Donald Trump commented on the election outcome on Monday, stating that the process looked like another rigged election. He offered this assessment without providing specific evidence at the time. The comments added to the political dialogue surrounding the Brazilian election results and the subsequent movement of Bolsonaro's family.
