September 12, 2025 — Brazil’s Supreme Court has ruled that former President Jair Bolsonaro is barred from holding public office for the next eight years, after finding him guilty of abusing his political power during the 2022 election campaign. The court concluded that Bolsonaro used state resources and spread misinformation to undermine confidence in the electoral system.
The decision effectively ends Bolsonaro’s chances of running in the 2026 presidential race, a contest in which he was expected to be a key challenger. The ruling also marks one of the most significant legal setbacks for the right-wing leader, who has faced multiple investigations since leaving office in January 2023.
Supporters of Bolsonaro have condemned the ruling as politically motivated, while his opponents welcomed it as a step toward safeguarding Brazil’s democratic institutions. Political analysts say the decision could reshape Brazil’s political landscape, potentially opening the way for new conservative leaders to rise.
Despite the ban, Bolsonaro remains an influential figure within Brazil’s right-wing movement, and experts suggest he could continue to shape political discourse and rally support from outside official office.