Overview

• Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally and a European lawmaker, announced he would run for president in 2027 if Marine Le Pen remains barred from candidacy.
• Marine Le Pen was convicted in March 2025 for misusing European Parliament funds, resulting in a five-year ban from public office, which she is appealing.
• Bardella emphasized his loyalty to Le Pen, stating she remains the party's candidate unless legally prevented from running.
• The 29-year-old Bardella, widely seen as Le Pen's protégé, stressed the importance of party unity during this period of uncertainty.
• Under French law, Bardella meets all eligibility criteria to run for president, positioning himself as a key figure in the National Rally's leadership succession.