Lula Allies Visit U.S. to Counter Bolsonaro Narrative

A delegation of Brazilian lawmakers allied with President Lula has arrived in Washington this week, seeking to bolster engagement with Democratic members of Congress and present an alternative perspective to that previously shared by the Bolsonaro family.

The trip occurs amid strained bilateral relations. Initially focused on discussing election integrity and non-interference, the mission's context shifted following recent U.S. government actions affecting Brazil. These include the classification of criminal organizations PCC and Comando Vermelho as terrorist groups, a move the Brazilian government fears could have economic repercussions. Additionally, potential U.S. investigations could lead to tariffs as high as 37.5% on Brazilian products. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently stated that Brazil is not among the countries considered "friendly" to the United States.

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I think that from our side, from the progressive side, there was a lack of humility in taking this approach by the Bolsonaro family to the White House seriously, especially with Donald Trump.

The delegation, including deputies Jandira Feghali, Pedro Uczai, Pedro Campos, and André Janones, aims to strengthen dialogue channels with U.S. congressmen and international bodies. They also plan to propose bilateral cooperation in areas like combating organized crime, financial intelligence, and international arms trafficking. Although their agenda primarily includes meetings with Democrats, the deputies have requested a meeting with the State Department, led by Rubio, and are awaiting a response.

During a press briefing, the deputies criticized the Bolsonaro family's engagement with the White House. André Janones specifically commented on the progressive left's perceived failure to take seriously the Bolsonaro family's outreach to the U.S. government, particularly Donald Trump. He argued that previous trips by the Bolsonaros were often dismissed with disdain by the left but ultimately produced tangible outcomes. Janones believes this current mission is crucial to broaden dialogue with American lawmakers and prevent allies of the former president from monopolizing the narrative about Brazil in Washington.

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Whenever there was a report, there was that tone of contempt. 'Oh, he went there to beg for a photo.' 'Oh, he went there to try and get a space.' And each time they deliver more results.