The pairing of right-wing brawn and dominion theology have proved potent in Brazil, with results that might look familiar to Americans.

President Lula strongly opposed President Trump's tariff imposition. This was in response to Brazil's trial of Jair Bolsonaro. Lula affirmed Brazil's sovereignty and judicial independence. Trump criticized Bolsonaro's prosecution and threatened tariffs.

It’s almost as if tariffs are the new sanctions. Consider Trump’s announcement Wednesday that Brazil will face 50 percent tariffs. He made that threat in part because he’s upset about how the current Brazilian government is treating former Brazilian President JAIR BOLSONARO,