Marine Le Pen's Potential Exit from 2027 Presidential Race
Marine Le Pen, the enduring figurehead of France's far-right National Rally (RN), has revealed she might not be able to run in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. The reason: a recent fraud conviction that threatens to bar her from holding public office for five years.
Legal Hurdles and Political Consequences
In March, a French court convicted Le Pen and several allies over a scandal involving fictitious jobs claimed at the European Parliament. While she has appealed, the ruling still casts a cloud over her political future, with a final verdict expected by the summer of 2026.
For the first time, Le Pen openly acknowledged the possibility she may have to forgo her presidential ambitions. Speaking to a French weekly, she stated, “I have accepted the possibility that I may be unable to run.”
Jordan Bardella: The Next in Line?
With this uncertainty looming, Le Pen has asked her protégé, Jordan Bardella, to be ready to step into her shoes if needed. Bardella, 29, who succeeded Le Pen as the leader of National Rally in 2022, is already spearheading the party’s campaign for the European elections.
Bardella has garnered attention for his dynamic media presence and popularity among younger voters, positioning himself as a natural heir to Le Pen's political legacy. While Le Pen once dismissed the idea he would replace her, recent statements suggest she’s preparing the ground for such a scenario.
Public Perception and Political Dynamics
Le Pen slammed her conviction as a “political decision” and a “witch hunt,” warning that barring her could spark widespread public discontent across the political spectrum. She said, “Many French people, regardless of their political convictions, would then understand that the rules of the game have been manipulated.”
Despite rumors of tension between Le Pen and Bardella, both leaders have denied any discord. In fact, recent polls hint that Bardella’s personal appeal may even be outpacing Le Pen’s, with 28% of respondents expressing willingness to vacation with Bardella, compared to 22% for Le Pen.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Le Pen is determined to continue her fight, vowing not to yield before the appeal's outcome. She cautioned against underestimating the fallout if she is ultimately barred from the race, declaring, “Of course, the situation is not ideal. But what else do you suggest? That I commit suicide before I’m murdered?”
Meanwhile, the political landscape for the 2027 election remains fluid. So far, former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe stands as the only major figure to have officially announced his candidacy.
