LeadStory

Why does Trump want to impose tariffs on Brazil?

Asked 10 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
11 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
13 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
13 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
1 day 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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