French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has been convicted of embezzling EU funds and faces a five-year ban from running for office in the 2027 elections, a ruling that is seen as a major blow to her party’s chances of winning power.
Le Pen had called for a peaceful mass protest in Paris on Sunday, but her tactics have played poorly with many voters, particularly older ones who have expressed support for the court’s decision. Polls show that a majority of French people don’t see any problem with the verdict and that Le Pen was treated like any other defendant.
The ruling has also created an opening for internal competition within Le Pen’s party, as her 29-year-old protege Jordan Bardella gains popularity among younger voters. Bardella is widely seen as a potential alternative to Le Pen and must now navigate his loyalty to his boss while pursuing his own ambitions.
Despite the conviction, Le Pen remains defiant, saying “she’s not above the law.” However, her attacks on judges have irked many, including some who have received similar public office bans themselves. President Emmanuel Macron has also condemned Le Pen’s behavior, calling it “unbearable and intolerable.”
The decision is a significant setback for Le Pen and the National Rally party, which has traditionally prospered in southern France. The city of Toulon, where Le Pen’s party has a strong presence, has expressed concerns about the ruling’s impact on the party’s chances in the 2027 elections.
As Le Pen faces this new challenge, her party must now navigate the complex web of internal politics and public opinion to stay relevant.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/toulon-le-pens-legal-fightback-leaves-many-french-voters-cold-2025-04-04