RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil — The final stage of the trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro is underway in Brazil — a historic first, with the ex-leader accused of trying to overturn democracy after his 2022 election defeat.
Bolsonaro, 70, is accused of leading a sweeping criminal conspiracy to stay in power after his defeat to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Brazil, Latin America's largest country, returned to democracy just over 40 years ago after a brutal military dictatorship.
Prosecutors have highlighted the role of military commanders who refused to back Bolsonaro's alleged plot, helping preserve constitutional order. Meanwhile, Brazil's Supreme Court is under intense scrutiny for its expanded powers and aggressive handling of the case.
Adding to the drama, former U.S. President Donald Tr