Brazilian Supreme Court justices convicted Jair Bolsonaro of trying to stage a coup after losing the 2022 election.
A majority of the five-member panel delivered guilty verdicts against the former president on Thursday.
Justice Cármen Lúcia cast her vote after Justice Luiz Fux defended acquittal and rejected all charges.
Only one justice has yet to vote before the panel determines Bolsonaro’s prison sentence, possibly lasting decades.
Global and Domestic Fallout Escalates
The ruling has sharpened Brazil’s political divides and could trigger fresh tensions with the United States.
Former US President Donald Trump called Bolsonaro’s prosecution a “witch hunt” and linked tariffs to his ally’s trial.
Washington may impose sanctions on Brazil, straining already fragile relations between both nations.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes placed Bolsonaro under house arrest in August for breaking rules on political communication.
Bolsonaro’s Defence and Political Future
Bolsonaro denied wrongdoing, skipped court, and sent his lawyers to represent him before the justices.
His legal team announced plans to appeal the conviction to the full 11-member Supreme Court.
Supporters continue to march for his acquittal, while critics insist the trial exposes his coup leadership.
Despite conviction, Bolsonaro remains a potent force, already banned from elections until 2030 in another case.
Observers expect him to endorse a political heir who could challenge President Lula da Silva next year.
Lawmakers loyal to Bolsonaro, including his three sons, may push for congressional amnesty to shield him.
