Conservative Brazilians heaped praise on Elon Musk at a rally in support of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro, whose legal troubles are mounting in tandem with the billionaire entrepreneur's feud with the South American nation's Supreme Court.

Rio de Janeiro

Supporters of Brazil's far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro gathered at a rally in Rio, expressing their admiration for Elon Musk amidst Bolsonaro's growing legal challenges. Those in attendance not only lined up behind Bolsonaro but also showed support for the tech mogul Musk, who has recently clashed with Brazil's Supreme Court. Crowds at the event were heard cheering for Bolsonaro and advocating for his return to political power, despite his current inability to run for office due to election-related violations.

The rally marks Bolsonaro's second public appearance since being disqualified from public office until 2030, as a consequence of abusing presidential powers to disrupt the integrity of the 2022 elections. Attendees voiced their hope for an overturn of the court's decision, allowing for Bolsonaro's re-election. Elon Musk was hailed as a hero for his outspoken criticism of Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes, Bolsonaro's well-known adversary, with attendees applauding Musk's stance on freedom of expression.

Despite the ban on his political participation, Bolsonaro's influence remains evident. His followers remain hopeful about his political future, even as investigations into his alleged involvement in plotting a coup are expected to conclude soon, with analysts predicting possible imprisonment. Bolsonaro is utilizing these rallies to demonstrate his continued political influence, aiming to shield himself in the face of imminent legal battles. Additionally, he leads the opposition against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, indicating that, though barred from running himself, Bolsonaro could still significantly impact the selection of his political allies in the upcoming municipal elections.



Bolsonaro supporters hail Elon Musk at Rio rally

Crowds cheering Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro, calling for his return to power. It's Bolsonaro's second rally since he was banned from running for public office until 2030, after being found guilty of using his presidential powers to undermine the integrity of the 2022 elections. I believe God will help us overturn the court's decision and Bolsonaro will be elected president again. He praised tech tycoon Elon Musk, who lashed out at Bolsonaro's archenemy, Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes. Musk has the courage to defend freedom of expression. Let's have a round of applause for him. Brazil's former president still has the support of many voters here, but his political future hangs in a balance. Investigations into Bolsonaro's alleged role in plotting a coup are underway and expected to wrap up by July. Analysts here say his imprisonment is likely. Bolsonaro's using these rallies to show his political might on the streets, hoping it will protect him during all the legal battles he'll be facing in the upcoming weeks. And he's also leading the opposition against Lula. Bolsonaro may have been banned from running for office, but his supporters say he can still help elect his allies in October's municipal elections.

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