Former US President Donald Trump claimed on Monday, October 26, 2026, that Brazil’s recent presidential election appeared to be “rigged”. His comments came after leftist leader Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva secured a historic fourth term in office, defeating right-wing challenger Flávio Bolsonaro.
Trump Questions Election Integrity
Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, Trump criticized the process without citing supporting evidence.
”It looked like another rigged election, frankly,” Trump stated. “I didn’t take sides, but it was a terrible look for the world. Elections have to be indisputable, and it looked really bad to me.”
When questioned on whether he intended to take any action regarding the Brazilian election, Trump responded, “I am not running Brazil, I’m running the USA.”
Brazilian Reaction and Diplomatic Stance
The election outcome saw Flávio Bolsonaro refuse to concede while calling for the election results to be annulled. In response to Trump’s comments, Brazilian officials expressed confidence that the United States would ultimately recognize Lula’s victory due to indisputable voting tallies.
One official noted that Brazil’s government remains firm, observing that even if diplomatic ties were affected, “the U.S. will not invade Brazil to impose a puppet government. We are not a Venezuela. Our government will stand.”
Lula addressed supporters celebrating in central São Paulo, framing his victory as a triumph for democratic governance.
”Today is a historic day,” Lula declared. “Democracy always, dictatorship never again. Democracy always, fascism never again.”
