In a conversation about the 2018 election, Jeffrey Epstein exchanged praise about Bolsonaro with Steve Bannon: ‘It changed the game’

New documents released by Departamento of Justiça of Estados Unidos this past Friday, January 30th, brought to light a series of interactions and discussions involving

Among the exposed files, an exchange of communications between Epstein and Steve Bannon, former political strategist and advisor to former American president Donald Trump, drew attention for making complimentary mentions of the then presidential candidate of Brasil,

The revelations offer a glimpse into how influential figures on the international scene observed Brazilian politics at the time, highlighting opinions and comments that can impact the understanding of past events and the contact networks of controversial characters.

Compliments and the 2018 electoral dispute

A message attributed to Jeffrey Epstein, dated October 8, 2018, expressed strong approval of Bolsonaro. “Bolsonaro changed the game. Nenhum refugee wants to enter. Bruxelas doesn’t tell him what to do.

This exchange of messages took place on the eve of the second round of the Brazilian presidential election, when Bolsonaro had secured the majority of votes in the first round, with 49.2 million voters (46% of valid voters), surpassing Fernando Haddad, who obtained 31.3 million (29.28%), ensuring his subsequent victory.

Connection between political figures and the circle of Epstein

Steve Bannon, who at the time was already known for his proximity to global right-wing movements, responded to Epstein indicating his connection with the then candidate’s group. “They want me as an advisor. Can Devo do that?”, asked Bannon.

Epstein, in turn, would have weighed in on Bannon’s proposal, raising the question “It’s kind of the ‘kingdom in hell’ argument again.” Bannon had declared explicit support for Bolsonaro during that period, although he denied any formal participation in the campaign.

In interviews given at the time, the former strategist of Donald Trump described Bolsonaro with terms such as “leader”, “brilliant” and “sophisticated”, drawing parallels with Trump himself. Epstein’s mention of Bannon visiting Brasil to reinforce the “brand” in case of Bolsonaro’s victory was also present in the dialogues.

Controversial dialogues with Noam Chomsky and Lula

The newly released documents also reveal conversations in which Epstein stated that the philosopher and political activist Noam Chomsky had called him “from prison”, alongside president Luiz Inácio Lula of Silva. Contudo, this statement was categorically denied by both the wife of Chomsky, Valeria, and Palácio of Planalto.

In one of the dialogues, Bannon allegedly responded to Epstein: “Tell him that my candidate will win in the first round”, in a clear reference to Bolsonaro. Epstein added, using the expression “the real deal”, to refer to the Brazilian politician.

Another point of interest is the advice from Epstein to Bannon to avoid the topic of Bolsonaro in a possible meeting with Noam Chomsky, facilitated by the financier himself in Arizona. The concern was based on the fact that Chomsky’s wife was Brazilian and the couple’s proximity to Lula, suggesting a potential ideological clash in social and economic issues.

Epstein warned Bannon that Chomsky would be interested in knowing if he “is on the side of the little guys: tax cuts, attacks on public health and Bolsonarist threats to organized workers”, highlighting the contrast between political views.

Behind the scenes of the 2018 campaign and security

The files show that Jeffrey Epstein would not have approved Bolsonaro’s stance in classifying an association with Steve Bannon as “fake news”, despite Eduardo Bolsonaro, son of the then candidate, having previously signaled to the press the availability of Bannon for the family. In November 2018, Eduardo even participated in a birthday dinner for Bannon, as reported by the press.

Jair Bolsonaro’s statement at the time denying the partnership led Bannon to comment, “I have to keep this Jair thing behind the scenes. Meu’s power comes from having no one to defend me.” Bannon expressed that he was “impressed” with the dynamics of Bolsonaro’s campaign and offered advice, especially on security.

Developments in the release of files

The continued release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case by the US Departamento of Justiça maintains global public and media attention. Esses files provide crucial information about Epstein’s interactions with a vast network of high-profile individuals, which go beyond the immediate circle of his criminal activities. Cada new batch of documents contributes to a more complete understanding of the political, social and economic relationships that surrounded the financier, revealing details that can alter the perception of historical events and public figures. The transparency sought with these disclosures aims to elucidate the complexities of the case and the connections that permeated the highest levels, reinforcing the commitment to elucidating facts and accountability.

Relationship between Chomsky and Epstein

Noam Chomsky maintained a close relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Documentos indicate that the financier had offered financial assistance and accommodation at his properties, which raises questions about the nature of his ties and the scope of Epstein’s influence in different intellectual and political spheres.

Implications of the revelations

With each new batch of documents, the repercussions of Jeffrey Epstein’s interactions expand, generating debates about ethics, power and responsibility. The revelations of dialogues involving Bolsonaro and Bannon, although dated 2018, highlight how global political figures were monitored or interacted with Epstein’s circle. Tais information can recontextualize analyzes about political alliances and communication strategies of the time, forcing a reflection on the public image and behind the scenes of electoral campaigns in an interconnected international scenario.

Analysis of these documents remains an ongoing effort, with potential implications for understanding how certain discourses and figures gained global prominence. The investigation into Epstein’s contacts, even after his death, demonstrates the importance of transparency for history and public integrity.

The international community and political analysts remain attentive as more details are processed and understood. The complexity of the case and the variety of personalities involved guarantee that discussions about the legacy of Epstein and his connections will continue for a long time, influencing investigative journalism and historical analysis.