Brazil’s Supreme Court convicted Jair Bolsonaro for attempting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election.
Three of five justices ruled Bolsonaro guilty on five counts; one vote remains pending.
Justice Cármen Lúcia voted for conviction Thursday, a day after Justice Luiz Fux voted to acquit him.
The court will determine Bolsonaro’s sentence after the final vote, potentially sentencing him to decades in prison.
The 70-year-old former president remains under house arrest for violating a ban on political messaging.
Political Tensions Rise
The ruling deepens Brazil’s political divide and could trigger reactions from the United States government.
Donald Trump criticized Bolsonaro’s legal process as a “witch hunt” and linked it to Brazilian tariffs.
Observers warn Washington may impose new sanctions, heightening diplomatic tensions between Brazil and the U.S.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes called Bolsonaro the leader of a coup conspiracy and a criminal organization.
Bolsonaro Retains Influence
Bolsonaro did not attend court, sending lawyers instead and denying any wrongdoing.
His legal team plans to appeal the verdict to the full Supreme Court of 11 justices.
Supporters demonstrated in the streets demanding acquittal, while opponents hailed the court’s decision.
Bolsonaro remains politically powerful despite a ban on office until 2030 and ongoing legal challenges.
He may select a political heir to challenge President Lula da Silva next year.
Allied lawmakers and his three sons might push Congress to seek amnesty and reduce his sentence.
