Jun 12, 2021 - World

Bolsonaro fined for not wearing a mask at rally in Sao Paulo

Jacob Knutson

Brazil's president fined for not wearing mask — Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro waves to supporters during a motorcycle rally through the streets of Sao Paulo on June 12. Photo: Rodrigo Paiva/Getty Images

The state government of São Paulo fined Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro around $110 for not wearing a mask while leading a motorcade rally through the streets of São Paulo, according to AP.

Why it matters: Bolsonaro, who contracted the virus last July, has repeatedly flouted coronavirus restrictions meant to control its spread despite surging cases and deaths from the virus in the country.

Flashback: He was also fined for not wearing a mask during a rally in May in the state of Maranhao.

The big picture: Though Brazil has gained access to vaccines, less than 12% of its population has been vaccinated against the virus, according to AP.

The country reported more than 149,000 new coronavirus cases and 2,216 deaths from the virus on Friday, according to Johns Hopkins University data.
It has reported a total of 17 million cases and 484,235 deaths.

Go deeper: Thousands rally across Brazil against Bolsonaro over COVID crisis

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Bolsonaro fined for not wearing a mask at rally in Sao Paulo

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