Overview

• Sébastien Chenu said relations between Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella were very good and denied any leadership war within the party.
• The dispute stemmed from Le Pen’s comment in New Caledonia questioning Bardella’s grasp of the territory’s issues.
• Bardella responded that he understands overseas dossiers well and argued that Le Pen’s comment was taken out of context.
• The Rassemblement National aims to carry its platform into the 2027 presidential election under Le Pen or, if she is barred, under Bardella.
• Le Pen’s appeal of her five-year ineligibility conviction is scheduled for summer 2026, which could elevate Bardella to the primary candidacy.