Le Pen Sentenced to Four Years, Barred from 2027 Presidential Election

Eric Ciotti's political party, aligned with Marine Le Pen's National Rally, is attempting to distance itself from the recent legal troubles facing Le Pen and other far-right leaders, including a four-year ban from the 2027 Presidential election due to alleged EU fund misappropriation. While Ciotti publicly supports Le Pen, he emphasizes the differences between their parties, aiming to navigate the controversy without being directly impacted. Critics argue that the legal actions against Le Pen represent a broader campaign against populist leaders in France, with media outlets labeling her as 'far-right' despite her popularity among voters. Polls indicate Le Pen is leading other candidates by a significant margin for the upcoming election, yet state-funded media continues to portray her supporters as extremists, raising concerns about media bias. The situation reflects a complex interplay of politics and public perception, as both Ciotti and Le Pen seek to consolidate their positions amid ongoing legal and electoral challenges.