Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has announced that he has been invited to attend the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20. Bolsonaro, who faces significant legal challenges and has been barred from holding political office in Brazil until 2030, shared the news on X, describing the invitation as an honor.
Bolsonaro revealed that he is currently seeking the return of his confiscated passport to make the trip to Washington, D.C. His passport was seized in February 2024 amid ongoing investigations into his alleged role in a coup attempt following Brazil’s 2022 presidential election. The former president’s legal team has already submitted a request for its return, citing the importance of attending the historic event.
“I am very honored to receive this invitation from President Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance,” Bolsonaro said. “This is an important and historic occasion, and I hope to be present to witness it.” He also thanked his son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, for fostering ties with the Trump family.
Bolsonaro’s legal woes include accusations of plotting a coup and orchestrating the January 8, 2023, riots in Brazil, during which his supporters stormed the presidential palace, Congress, and Supreme Court. The incident, aimed at restoring Bolsonaro to power, drew comparisons to the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of Trump.
Despite facing criminal charges and denying any wrongdoing, Bolsonaro remains a polarizing figure both in Brazil and internationally. His brand of populist politics has often earned him the nickname “The Tropical Trump,” highlighting parallels between his leadership style and that of the U.S. president-elect.
Trump’s decision to invite Bolsonaro has raised eyebrows, especially given the legal challenges both leaders have faced. While Trump’s legal troubles related to the 2020 election were dismissed in November 2024 following his re-election, Bolsonaro’s case remains ongoing.
Bolsonaro’s potential presence at the inauguration symbolizes a continued alliance between the two leaders. Trump’s invitation underscores his intention to align with global figures who share his conservative vision and approach to governance. Bolsonaro’s attendance would also provide an opportunity to reassert his political relevance on the international stage.
“This invitation from President Trump is more than an honor; it’s a signal of continued support for the ideals we have fought for,” Bolsonaro said. “The strength of our relationship reflects our shared vision for governance and national pride.”
Bolsonaro’s ability to attend the inauguration hinges on the Brazilian courts’ approval of his request to retrieve his passport. While the legal scrutiny surrounding Bolsonaro remains intense, his legal team has emphasized the significance of the occasion and his right to travel as a private citizen.
The event itself is expected to draw high-profile figures from around the world, reinforcing Trump’s influence and reshaping the global political landscape. Bolsonaro’s potential attendance could further solidify the bond between the U.S. and Brazilian right-wing movements.
Observers have long noted the similarities between Bolsonaro and Trump, from their nationalist rhetoric to their contentious political legacies. Both leaders have faced accusations of undermining democratic institutions and inspiring loyalist movements that have tested the boundaries of democratic norms.
Bolsonaro’s January 8, 2023, riots in Brazil remain a point of contention. Critics see his actions as a direct assault on Brazil’s democratic processes, akin to Trump’s role in the events of January 6, 2021. For supporters, however, both leaders represent a fight against perceived corruption and a defense of national sovereignty.
As January 20 approaches, the world will watch closely to see whether Bolsonaro’s request to travel is granted and what his presence at the inauguration will signify. For Trump, the event marks a return to power and a reaffirmation of his global influence. For Bolsonaro, it could be an opportunity to maintain his relevance amid mounting legal and political challenges.
The invitation reflects a shared commitment to a populist agenda that has reshaped the political landscape in both nations. As Bolsonaro seeks to navigate his legal hurdles, the potential reunion of these two leaders serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of their controversial and transformative leadership styles.
