Brazilian Senate Suspends President Dilma Rousseff

The Brazilian Senate has finally voted to impeach leftist President Dilma Rousseff, suspending her from office and allowing Vice President Michel Temer to form a new cabinet. Rousseff is accused of violating budget laws and manipulating Brazil's public accounts, charges she has denied, asserting they are politically motivated. However, these accusations ultimately led the Brazilian Senate on Thursday, May 12, to suspend her from the presidency with 55 votes in favor and 22 against, marking the end of the Workers' Party's governance in the country after 13 years. Brazilian police had a brief confrontation with Rousseff's supporters in the capital a day before the Senate vote, which resulted in tear gas being fired. Reuters reports that Rousseff, who is considered Brazil's first female president, is unlikely to be acquitted of her charges in court. Her trial could last up to six months. The impeachment process against Rousseff was initially initiated in the Chamber of Deputies, but she referred to the actions of the Chamber as a 'coup' against her. In this context, opposition Senator José Serra stated, 'This impeachment is a tragedy for the country. However, Rousseff's continued government would be a greater tragedy. The situation in Brazil is unbearable.' Brazil is currently facing a budget deficit of 10% of its GDP, along with rising unemployment and declining investment. Therefore, Michel Temer, a 75-year-old centrist politician, will have to grapple with serious economic challenges.