In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, former Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araújo called on the Biden administration to speak up against Brazil's ban on social media platform X. Araújo, who served under former President Jair Bolsonaro, emphasized that the United States has a responsibility to be a beacon of democracy and advocate for free speech.

Araújo criticized the Biden administration for its silence on the matter, stating that their hesitation to support free speech predates the ban on X. He argued that the banning of the social media platform is just one among many steps taken to curtail basic rights and erode the rule of law and democracy in Brazil. Araújo believes that the ban is a result of actions taken by the Supreme Court and a portion of the political class in Brazil.

The ban on X came into effect after the company failed to appoint a legal representative in Brazil. Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes ordered the "immediate, complete and total suspension of X's operations" in the country. The ban will only be lifted once all court orders are complied with, fines are paid, and a new legal representative is appointed.

X, under the ownership of Elon Musk, has refused to comply with Moraes's order to ban several accounts associated with individuals involved in an alleged coup attempt last year. Justice Moraes claimed that these accounts were spreading misinformation and posed a threat. Musk, in response, accused the judge of attacking free speech and violating the Brazilian constitution.

Araújo emphasized that the United States has an international responsibility, particularly in the hemisphere, to protect and champion freedom. He expressed disappointment in what he perceived as sympathy from the Biden administration and the Democratic Party for the wrong people in Latin America. Araújo called for the U.S. to stand with those who strive to protect democracy and not those who seek to undermine it, regardless of political affiliation.

The ban on X has sparked division in Brazil, with many users migrating to alternative platforms such as Bluesky and Threads. Although the user base of X is smaller compared to Instagram and TikTok, the platform has played a significant role in disseminating news and influencing political discourse in the country.

Protests against the social media ban are expected to take place on Saturday, coinciding with Brazil's Independence Day celebrations. Critics, including former officials and allies of Bolsonaro, fear that this ban sets a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to further restrictions on other platforms and services.

In addition to the social media ban, concerns have been raised regarding Brazil's international trajectory. Araújo expressed unease at the country's growing ties with China, Russia, and Iran, characterizing it as a strategic shift that aligns Brazil with adversaries of freedom and the United States.

As the debate surrounding the social media ban continues, the Biden administration faces calls to take a stand and condemn the restrictions on free speech in Brazil. The outcome of this situation will serve as a litmus test for the U.S.' commitment to democratic values and its influence in the hemisphere.