Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally party, is preparing for the 2027 presidential election in France. Following a conviction for misusing European Parliament funds, she has regained eligibility to run after a Paris court reduced her electoral ban to 15 months, which has been considered time served. Recent polls indicate Le Pen has the support of 34% to 36% of voters, leading by 17 points over Edouard Philippe, a centrist candidate aligned with President Emmanuel Macron.
Le Pen announced her candidacy after her appeal case was concluded, maintaining her innocence regarding the misuse of funds. The court has also lifted the requirement for her to wear an ankle monitor, allowing her to campaign freely. Her return to leadership comes as her former protege, Jordan Bardella, steps aside, and the two are now campaigning together as a prospective presidential and prime ministerial duo, which is uncommon in French politics.
Bardella expressed support for Le Pen's return, stating he is “delighted” but feels “neither relief nor disappointment” about stepping back from the candidacy. The French presidency is regarded as a powerful office, capable of making significant policy decisions, while the prime minister focuses on domestic governance.