Electoral Shock: Trump Allies Face Setbacks
On a politically charged Sunday, two right-wing populists close to Donald Trump lost. In Latin America, Brazil rejected Bolsonaro's return. In Europe, Serbia removed a leader with close ties to the US president. This breaks a seven-win streak for the populist right in the region. Trump had backed candidates like Abelardo de la Espriella in Colombia, Nasry TitoAsfura in Honduras, and José Antonio Kast in Chile.
Brazil: Lula Defeats Flávio Bolsonaro
In Brazil, left-wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defeated Flávio Bolsonaro. Flávio, seen as the heir to his father's populist movement, refused to admit defeat. He demanded a recount of the results. Jair Bolsonaro serves a 27-year sentence after being found guilty of plotting a coup to overturn his 2022 loss. Trump called the trial a „witch hunt.”The White House did not immediately comment on this electoral race.
Serbia: Opposition Defeats Vučić's Party
In Europe, a student-led opposition movement defeated Aleksandar Vučić's right-wing party. Vučić was set to become prime minister. Unlike the Bolsonaro family, Vučić acknowledged his defeat on Sunday. This Balkan leader has charmed Trump's inner circle, including Donald Trump Jr., calling the US president a „kindred spirit.”This mirrors the shift that allowed Hungary to oust Viktor Orbán in April after 16 years in power.
Europe: Populist Right Gains Ground Elsewhere
Political turmoil in Europe has a dual effect. While the populist right falls in Serbia and Hungary, it gains ground in two major economies. In France, Marine Le Pen launched her 2027 presidential campaign this weekend. She leverages national discontent to promote a strict agenda on crime and immigration. In Germany, the Alternative for Germany party hit a record 44% in a state election last month. It leads national polls.
Israel: Netanyahu's Decisive Test
In Israel, Tuesday's elections are a major test of Trump's regional influence. Benjamin Netanyahu, seeking political survival, highlighted Trump's support and their friendshipahead of the vote. The election is seen as a referendum on the October 7, 2023 security failure, which killed approximately 1,200 people. Netanyahu, 77, has served as prime minister for about 19 years in non-consecutive terms. The next Israeli leader will shape Trump's next moves in the Middle East, including whether to escalate the war against Iran.