Tarifa de Trump pode minar chances presidenciais de Tarcísio de Freitas em 2026

US President Donald Trump's tariff threat jeopardizes Brazilian Governor Tarcisio de Freitas' 2026 presidential bid. Tarcisio, who has pro-business policies, is seen as a potential heir to Jair Bolsonaro, but faces difficulties balancing the needs of the elite and ordinary citizens who will bear the brunt of the tariffs. Lula da Silva's critics accuse Tarcisio of allying with the US, and he has faced criticism for wearing a MAGA hat in a photo.

US President Donald Trump's recent tariff threat against Brazil has significant implications for the 2026 presidential elections, particularly for Governor Tarcisio de Freitas. As a potential heir to Jair Bolsonaro, de Freitas faces challenges balancing his pro-business policies with the economic impact of the tariffs on ordinary citizens.

Trump's announcement of a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods, citing unfair trade practices and political pressure against Bolsonaro, has sent shockwaves through global trade and diplomacy [1]. While Brazil has maintained a trade surplus with the US, the tariffs could sharply reduce access to the American market for Brazilian exporters, threatening jobs and economic growth [1].

De Freitas, known for his pro-business policies, has been criticized by Lula da Silva's critics for aligning with the US. His wearing of a MAGA hat in a photo has further fueled these accusations. The tariffs could exacerbate economic uncertainty, making life more expensive and unpredictable for millions of Brazilians, and potentially swaying votes against de Freitas in the upcoming elections.

The Brazilian government has vowed to respond with reciprocal measures if the tariffs come into effect on August 1, 2025 [1]. This stance underscores the country's commitment to sovereignty and its judicial independence, a position that resonates with many Brazilians.

The tariffs are not just about economics; they are part of a broader political battle between Trump and Bolsonaro. Trump's support for Bolsonaro, who is facing trial for alleged coup attempts and election fraud, is well-documented. Trump's former adviser, Steve Bannon, even suggested that stopping Bolsonaro's trial could lead to a reversal of the tariffs [2].

The tariffs, along with ongoing legal battles between Trump Media and Brazilian courts over content censorship orders, highlight the complex nature of US-Brazil relations. These disputes are not just about trade but also about political influence and the protection of democratic institutions.

In conclusion, Trump's tariff threat is a double-edged sword for de Freitas. While it could bolster his pro-business credentials, it also risks alienating ordinary citizens who will bear the brunt of the economic fallout. The upcoming elections will be a test of de Freitas' ability to navigate these complex political and economic waters.

References:
[1] https://www.finance-monthly.com/2025/07/trump-brazil-tariff-threat-2025/
[2] https://talkingpointsmemo.com/cafe/trumps-brazil-tariffs-are-mostly-about-his-buddy-jair-bolsonaro