Experts cited by multiple outlets say the United States’ move to designate two Brazilian gangs as terrorist organizations is likely driven by politics rather than solely by security concerns. Analysts argue the decision aligns with efforts to affect public opinion ahead of Brazil’s elections, pointing to the timing and potential domestic political impact. Some commentators connect the action to U.S. strategy involving allies connected to former Brazilian politics, including attention to President Donald Trump and figures associated with Jair Bolsonaro’s political network. According to these experts, labeling the gangs as terrorists could strengthen an allied candidate’s position in Brazil by framing the issue as international pressure against criminal groups. The outlets also note that the U.S. classification decision is controversial and is being debated by political figures and analysts, who question whether the move is intended to influence election narratives. At the same time, the reporting reflects that the U.S. action is framed by the United States as a counterterrorism measure. The overall coverage presents differing interpretations, but all sources report the same core claim: that critics see the designations as election-related maneuvering.