California Governor attacks Trump’s tariffs: “Bolsonaro tariffs”

Belem — During his participation in the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), in Belém (Pennsylvania), on Tuesday (11/11), California Governor Gavin Newsom strongly criticized the trade tariffs imposed by the United States on Brazil under the government of Donald Trump, describing them as “Bolsonaro’s tariffs.”

The Democrat called the measures a “joke” and an “abomination,” noting that they increase product costs in the United States and negatively affect bilateral relations.

“Tariffs against Brazil are a joke, disgusting. I mean, Bolsonaro’s tariffs, let’s define what they actually are. We want to negotiate the surplus with you. It’s ridiculous. They’re illegal tariffs. And now they’re in the US Supreme Court,” Newsom said.

Trump, tariffs, and Brazil

Trump had been threatening the world with trade tariffs since the beginning of his term, and paid special attention to the BRICS group and Brazil.
The North American president even threatened to impose 100% tariffs on member states of the bloc that do not submit to “US commercial interests.”
After defending former President Jair Bolsonaro (PL), Trump threatened to increase tariffs on Brazilian exports.
The North American leader claimed that Brazil does not “deal well” with the United States.
Trump’s 50% rate took effect on August 1, and is being imposed separately from sectoral tariffs, such as those already affecting Brazilian steel and aluminum.
In April this year, Brazil had already been hit by Trump’s tariffs, and its products were initially taxed at 10%.

The governor noted that California was one of the first US states to file a lawsuit against the federal government over taxes, classifying them as unfair and harmful to trade.

Newsom also criticized the domestic impact of the measures on the US market. “The cost of products in my country is rising. People in the United States are angry about these tariffs, and we can imagine how you feel here in Brazil as well,” he said.

Meeting with Lola

Asked about the possibility of a meeting with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva during the event, the governor responded cautiously.

“Who knows the way things have gone in the last few days,” he said. “But I am very grateful to be here in Brazil. This is my first time, and it was an exceptional opportunity to be with Governor Helder Barbalo.”