Rumble and Trump Media Challenge Brazilian Judge Again in US Court Over Data Demand

Rumble and Trump Media are fighting a single, high-profile lawsuit in a US federal court against Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.

The dispute centers on Moraes’ order that Rumble block the account of commentator Rodrigo Constantino, who now holds US citizenship, and provide his personal data to Brazilian authorities.

Constantino’s situation is not a separate case but a key part of this broader legal action. Rumble argues that following Moraes’ demand would break US privacy laws, including the Stored Communications Act.

The company also says the order, sent by email rather than through official international channels, does not have legal force in the US. Rumble’s service has been blocked in Brazil since February 2025, and Constantino’s account has not been active since late 2023.

Since 2022, Moraes has ordered nearly 150 social media accounts suspended, mostly those critical of Brazil’s government. Rumble and Trump Media claim these actions amount to censorship that reaches beyond Brazil’s borders and violates rights protected by US law.

They want the Florida court to declare Moraes’ orders unenforceable in the US and to stop any attempts to force compliance. A US judge has already ruled that American companies do not have to follow Moraes’ demands, but the main case is still open.

US-Brazil Tensions Escalate

The legal fight has spilled over into trade. On July 9, US President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on all Brazilian imports, set to start August 1, 2025.

He linked the tariff to Brazil’s actions against US tech companies and the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Official data shows the US had only a small trade surplus with Brazil last year.

The new tariff threatens Brazilian exports like steel, coffee, meat, and car parts. US businesses warn of supply chain problems and higher costs. Brazil’s government admits some industries may be hit but says its courts will stay independent.

No other US lawsuits target Moraes, but some lawmakers want sanctions, including visa bans, if his actions are found to violate rights. This case shows how disputes over online speech and privacy can quickly become major trade and diplomatic problems.

The outcome will shape how countries handle data, privacy, and legal authority across borders. Constantino’s situation is a central part of this ongoing legal battle, not a separate case.