Election Dispute: Bolsonaro Declares Himself Brazil’s President

Brazilian Senator Flavio Bolsonaro declared himself the country’s rightful president on Wednesday from the United States.

His statement came days after he lost the presidential election held on Sunday. Bolsonaro traveled to Washington following his defeat, where he made his first public comments since departing his home country. He addressed both the Brazilian public and foreign leaders, asserting his legitimacy despite the official results.

The senator alleged that the election was manipulated. "On Sunday night, I watched in horror as electoral fraud unfolded right before my eyes," he said. He described the post-election actions against him as a politically motivated witch hunt designed to hold him hostage. Bolsonaro said he had anticipated the outcome and knew exactly where the situation was headed.

He explained that he brought his family to the United States due to what he called the politicization of the Brazilian justice system. Rejecting claims that he fled, Bolsonaro stated, "I did not flee Brazil. I left for Brazil's sake." He added that he left to avoid a state of exception so he could lead the people.

Bolsonaro thanked President Donald Trump and the American people for their welcome. He also appealed to the international community, asking them not to normalize the events in Brazil. He stated his intention to lead the opposition from the United States, though he did not specify how he would manage that role from abroad.

The senator’s remarks follow his Sunday loss. His departure and subsequent claims of legitimacy have intensified the dispute over Brazil’s new government. He remains in the United States as he prepares to continue his political fight from outside the country.