Brazil Divided Amid Bolsonaro Coup Trial, Mass Protests

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro faces a historic Supreme Court trial for allegedly leading a coup attempt to overturn the 2022 election results that brought Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to power. Bolsonaro and seven others are charged with multiple crimes that could result in over 40 years in prison, with the court's verdict expected imminently after live televised deliberations. The trial has deeply polarized Brazil, with mass rallies both supporting and opposing Bolsonaro taking place on Independence Day; supporters, including Bolsonaro's son Eduardo and U.S. President Donald Trump, decry the trial as political persecution and have responded with economic sanctions against Brazil. Despite Bolsonaro's house arrest since August 2025 and his absence from the trial citing health reasons, public opinion and judicial efforts largely favor justice and accountability for the anti-democratic actions. The trial's outcome carries significant implications for Brazil's democracy, as it would be the first time a former president and military figures face conviction for an attempted uprising. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between Brazil’s judicial system and far-right political factions seeking amnesty for those involved in the coup plot.