Bolsonaro son calls himself Brazil's president from U.S.
Senator Flavio Bolsonaro alleges electoral fraud and vows to lead opposition from abroad after losing Sunday's election.
By Giulia Marshall ·
Brazilian Senator Flavio Bolsonaro declared himself the country's legitimate leader on Wednesday while speaking from the United States.
The senator spoke for the first time since departing Brazil following his defeat in Sunday's presidential election. He addressed the Brazilian public and the international community as the "true elected president." He thanked U.S. President Donald Trump and the American people for their welcome.
Bolsonaro claimed the vote was manipulated. He stated that he watched electoral fraud unfold on Sunday night. The report notes he alleged the vote was manipulated but did not provide evidence for the claim. He said he had predicted the consequences of losing and described recent actions against him as a politically motivated witch hunt.
The senator explained that he brought his family to the U.S. because of the politicization of Brazil's justice system. He denied fleeing the country, stating he left for Brazil's sake. He said he departed a state of exception to become the leader his people deserve.
Bolsonaro asked the international community not to normalize the situation in Brazil. He affirmed his intention to lead the opposition from the United States. His remarks did not specify how he plans to fulfill that role from outside the country.
Reuters contributed to this report.
