Marine Le Pen Faces Pivotal Verdict in Embezzlement Trial

The court's decision on Monday could bar Le Pen from public office, jeopardizing her 2027 presidential bid and reshaping France's political future.

Marine Le Pen and 24 National Rally officials are accused of embezzling €7 million in European Parliament funds meant for parliamentary aides between 2004 and 2016.
If convicted, Le Pen could face a five-year ban from public office, a €300,000 fine, and a prison sentence, with the ban potentially taking immediate effect.
The Constitutional Council recently upheld the legality of immediate ineligibility for public office upon conviction, intensifying the stakes for Le Pen.
Le Pen has denied all charges, framing the trial as a politically motivated attack aimed at ending her career and undermining voter representation.
If barred from running in 2027, her successor Jordan Bardella is seen as a potential replacement, but concerns remain about his ability to match her electoral appeal.