Bolsonaro Senator Declares Himself Brazil's President After Election Loss

Senator Flavio Bolsonaro declared himself the rightful president of Brazil on Wednesday, marking his first public address since departing the country. The announcement followed his loss in the presidential election held last Sunday.

In remarks directed at the Brazilian public and international leaders, Bolsonaro stated he is the true elected head of state. He credited U.S. President Donald Trump and the American people for welcoming him to the United States.

The senator alleged that electoral fraud occurred during the vote. He described watching the results on Sunday night with horror. The report presents this as his claim without providing independent evidence to support the assertion of manipulation.

Bolsonaro explained that he brought his family to the United States due to what he termed the politicization of the Brazilian justice system. He rejected the notion that he fled the country, stating he left for Brazil's sake. He characterized the post-election actions against him as a politically motivated witch hunt intended to hold him hostage.

He said he had anticipated the consequences of losing the race and knew where the situation was headed. Bolsonaro added that he left what he called a state of exception so he could serve as the leader his people deserve.

The senator appealed to foreign governments and institutions, asking them not to normalize the current situation in Brazil. He affirmed his intention to lead the opposition from the United States, though his specific plans for executing that role from abroad remain undefined.