Bardella Plans 2027 Presidential Run If Le Pen Barred

Jordan Bardella, the leader of France's far-right National Rally (RN), has stated that he will run for president in 2027 if Marine Le Pen, the party's prominent figure and three-time presidential candidate, is barred from participating due to her recent legal troubles. Le Pen faces a five-year ban from public office after being convicted, along with several party officials, for misusing European Union funds, though she maintains her innocence and plans to appeal the ruling. Bardella, previously considered Le Pen's protégé and choice for prime minister in a potential administration, confirmed his readiness to step in as the party's candidate if needed, emphasizing party unity and support for Le Pen. He also underscored that all legal avenues will be pursued to challenge the court's decision, and he was not implicated in the case. The developments set the stage for a potentially pivotal 2027 French presidential election, with the National Rally preparing contingency plans amid ongoing legal and political uncertainty.