Elena Marchetti Topics Covered
The leader of France's far-right party, Marine Le Pen, has revealed her intentions regarding the 2027 presidential race. If the appeal against her current exclusion from the election is unsuccessful, she says she will not run. This statement marks a turning point in the French political landscape, where Le Pen has already attempted to win the presidency on three previous occasions.
Currently on trial for alleged financial misconduct related to European Parliament funds, Le Pen faces a verdict on January 13. The court conviction already handed down carries a five-year ban from running for public office, which could be lifted on appeal.
Le Pen's prospects and the Bardella case
If convicted again, Le Pen has declared that she will accept her fate and hand over the reins of her party to Jordan Bardella, a young 30-year-old politician who has already proven himself a valuable ally. "I don't want this situation to drag on any longer," she said in an interview with RTL, referring to the timing of the verdict, which could arrive in September.
Bardella's political future
Jordan Bardella is considered a potential successor to Le Pen, and his political ambitions are already well established. Recent opinion polls, such as the one conducted by Elabe, show that both Le Pen and Bardella enjoy a significant lead over their opponents. Both show a clear preference among voters for voting intentions in the first round of the presidential election.
The legal implications for Le Pen
Le Pen is no stranger to legal controversy. Her current legal situation poses a challenge not only to her career, but also to the entire right-wing party. If the court rejects her appeal, her inability to run in the 2027 elections could pave the way for new rising figures within the movement.
Despite the difficulties, Le Pen has shown a certain determination. She has ruled out the possibility of seeking a higher court if the appeal is unsuccessful, emphasizing that a favorable ruling from the highest court would prevent her from running an effective election campaign.
The political context in France
The political climate in France is currently being affected by a series of controversial events, including the trial of its former president, which continues to raise questions about the stability and integrity of its institutions. French auditors recently highlighted the need to improve security at major public venues, such as the Louvre, following a daring theft that shocked public opinion.
In this scenario, Le Pen continues to play a significant role in the political landscape, and her decisions could influence the right-wing party's long-term electoral strategies. While Le Pen's future remains uncertain, her protégé could emerge as a new voice in French politics.