Marine Le Pen, long considered a frontrunner for France’s 2027 presidential election, now finds herself legally barred from running. A French court has convicted her of embezzling European Union funds and banned her from seeking public office for five years.
The National Rally party has erupted in indignation, framing the conviction as an establishment move to prevent their rise to power. Le Pen herself has declared that France’s democratic institutions have been “violated,” portraying herself as a victim rather than an offender. While this narrative of a weaponised justice system resonates with her base, it appears to have limited traction with the broader public.
Public Opinion Shows Restraint
Despite heated rhetoric from Le Pen’s camp, early polling indicates the French public isn’t buying the persecution narrative. Only 31% view the court’s decision as unjust – less than Le Pen’s typical support base of around 37%.
With presidential elections still two years away and President Macron unable to seek another term, the political landscape remains unpredictable.
Court Evidence and Legal Missteps
The trial exposed significant evidence of deliberate misappropriation of EU funds. Judges emphasized that Le Pen showed no remorse throughout the proceedings and employed legal strategies designed to obstruct justice.
Legal experts suggest her confrontational approach backfired, as judges explicitly noted that a more cooperative stance might have resulted in lighter sentencing.
The Rise of Jordan Bardella
With Le Pen potentially sidelined, attention turns to her 29-year-old protégé, Jordan Bardella. Already party president, Bardella has cultivated popularity among younger voters through his social media presence and more polished image.
His youth and relative lack of historical baggage could make him a formidable candidate if Le Pen’s appeal fails.
Judiciary Under Threat
In a disturbing development, Judge Benedicte de Perthuis now requires police protection after her home address was shared online, accompanied by numerous death threats.
President Macron has condemned these threats, emphasizing that judicial independence forms a pillar of French democracy.
International Reactions
The conviction has drawn international attention, with Russia’s Foreign Ministry claiming France had “killed democracy” through the ruling.
Whether Le Pen succeeds in her planned appeal remains to be seen, but the conviction has undoubtedly altered France’s political trajectory and raised fundamental questions about the balance between judicial independence and electoral politics.