Bolsonaro claims Brazil leadership after fleeing to US

Flavio Bolsonaro, Brazil's defeated right-wing presidential candidate, arrived in the United States on Wednesday, beginning a self-imposed exile. He claimed to be the country's rightful leader following his loss to leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in a runoff election.

Bolsonaro stated on his X account that he is the 'elected president' and accused opponents of engaging in 'electoral fraud.' He later revised his claim, calling himself the 'leader' rather than 'president.'

Bolsonaro, 45, landed in Florida via a private jet at Opa-Locka Executive Airport. His departure followed an investigation in Brazil over alleged corruption and money laundering. His parliamentary immunity is set to expire, and he was ordered to surrender his passports before leaving the country.

The US Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Bolsonaro and his family members were inspected and cleared under immigration laws. His Brazilian and diplomatic passports had been canceled, though he holds Italian nationality since 2023.

Brazil's Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes issued a travel ban against Bolsonaro, who had previously vowed to seek his impeachment if elected. Lula, the newly elected president, called Bolsonaro's departure a 'shameful' act, suggesting he had something to hide.

Bolsonaro's travel through Argentina and Ecuador sparked controversy, with Argentinian officials requesting details about his transit. Police in Brazil stated he is not considered a fugitive, though investigations into his finances and alleged corruption continue.