Bolsonaro’s Son Tries to Leverage Foreign Support, but Can It Translate into Votes?

The recent launch of Flavio Bolsonaro’s presidential bid in Brazil was marked by a flurry of international endorsements from right-wing leaders like Benjamin Netanyahu and Javier Milei. These endorsements are seen as an attempt to bolster the struggling campaign of the former president’s son, who has been trailing in the polls against incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

One notable aspect of Flavio Bolsonaro’s bid is his reliance on foreign support. While Brazilian politicians often seek international endorsements, the sheer scale and profile of these figures are unusual. Netanyahu’s video message praising Flavio as a “great champion” of Brazil-Israel friendship sent a clear signal that this was no ordinary endorsement.

However, it remains uncertain whether such foreign backing can translate into tangible electoral gains. Despite fanfare surrounding his campaign launch, few prominent Brazilian politicians attended, and center-right parties have largely kept their distance from Flavio’s bid. This raises questions about the level of support he enjoys within Brazil.

The recent history of Bolsonaro’s family is a pressing concern for voters. Jair Bolsonaro lost to Lula in 2022 and was subsequently convicted on charges related to a coup attempt, with his current prison sentence undoubtedly impacting the campaign. Flavio’s decision to feature a video message from his father rather than having him attend in person speaks volumes about the challenges he faces in distancing himself from his family’s troubled legacy.

Critics argue that Bolsonaro’s bid is being propped up by foreign influence, citing his attempts to court US President Donald Trump and the reported denial of visas to Trump administration officials seeking to meet with Brazil’s election authorities. This perception that Bolsonaro is trying to use his ties to the US for an unfair advantage in the election will be difficult for him to shake.

As Lula’s Workers Party prepares for its convention on August 2, it’s clear that Bolsonaro faces a daunting task ahead of him. While foreign endorsements may bring short-term attention and publicity, they are unlikely to overcome the deep-seated issues plaguing his campaign. Brazilian voters face a choice between two distinct visions: one rooted in nationalism and conservative ideology, the other focused on social justice and economic equality.

The consequences of Bolsonaro’s bid will be closely watched by observers around the world. Will he manage to overcome his poll deficit and win over disillusioned voters? Or will his reliance on foreign support ultimately prove a liability? The outcome will have significant implications for Brazil’s future, both domestically and in its international relations.