LeadStory

Why does Trump want to impose tariffs on Brazil?

Asked 9 hours ago

Answer

Trump wants to impose tariffs on Brazil primarily due to Brazil's prosecution of former president Jair Bolsonaro, which he calls a 'witch hunt.' He also cites concerns over Brazil's treatment of free elections and free speech, and uses tariffs as leverage for political outcomes.

References

Why Trump is threatening Brazil with a 50% tariff
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CBS News
9 hours ago
Why Trump is threatening Brazil with a 50% tariff

The letter sent to Brazil had a different rationale. President Trump accused Brazil's government of subjecting the country's former president to a witch hunt, demanding it end immediately.

Politico reporter: How Trump views tariffs as leverage
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CNN
11 hours ago
Politico reporter: How Trump views tariffs as leverage

The new tariffs on Brazil are really aimed at exacting a political outcome in a foreign country, so we're really seeing it here as this unprecedented leverage on a foreign government for the president to get his way.

Trump threatens Brazil with 50% tariff despite trade surplus
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CBS News
11 hours ago
Trump threatens Brazil with 50% tariff despite trade surplus

President Trump is threatening Brazil with a 50% tariff citing the criminal prosecution of former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro.

Trump goes after Brazil with 50% tariff, Lula vows response
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CNBC
23 hours ago
Trump goes after Brazil with 50% tariff, Lula vows response

In Trump's letter to Lula and Brazil, the president linked the tariffs to Brazil's treatment of former president Jair Bolsonaro, who's on trial over charges of plotting a coup. The president said the tariffs were imposed due in part to Brazil's insidious attacks on free elections and the fundamental free speech rights of Americans.

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