U.S. Considers Sanctions on Brazilian Justice Over Free Speech Concerns

The United States is considering imposing sanctions on Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes under the Global Magnitsky Act, a law that targets foreign officials involved in human rights abuses and corruption. This potential action arises from de Moraes's judicial decisions, including the suspension of U.S.-based social media platforms like Rumble in Brazil and the blocking of accounts accused of spreading disinformation. Critics, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, argue that these actions infringe upon free speech and U.S. sovereignty. The Brazilian government has expressed surprise at the U.S. stance, emphasizing the independence of its judiciary and the importance of respecting national sovereignty.

Justice Alexandre de Moraes, appointed to Brazil's Supreme Federal Court in 2017, has been active in combating disinformation and anti-democratic activities. In February 2025, he ordered the suspension of Rumble in Brazil for non-compliance with court orders, including failing to appoint a legal representative in the country. Rumble and Trump Media & Technology Group subsequently filed a lawsuit against de Moraes in a Florida court, alleging violations of free speech protections. However, a U.S. court denied the injunction sought by Rumble and TMTG, stating insufficient evidence to justify U.S. judicial intervention.

On May 28, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced new visa restrictions targeting foreign officials deemed complicit in censoring Americans, with de Moraes potentially among those affected. Rubio criticized foreign measures that demand U.S.-based tech firms enforce global content moderation, calling such actions a violation of U.S. sovereignty.

The Brazilian government has expressed surprise at the U.S. stance, emphasizing the independence of its judiciary and the importance of respecting national sovereignty. The situation highlights the tension between combating disinformation and upholding free speech rights, both domestically and internationally. Decisions affecting platforms like Rumble raise questions about the responsibilities of tech companies in moderating content and complying with international laws.

The potential U.S. sanctions against Justice Alexandre de Moraes underscore the complex interplay between national sovereignty, international law, free speech, and the regulation of digital platforms. As this situation unfolds, it will likely have significant implications for diplomatic relations, legal precedents, and the global tech industry.