Marine Le Pen has been disqualified from running for public office for five years following a court ruling on embezzlement charges, leaving many French voters feeling adrift and angry. The verdict underscores the rule of law in France, but raises questions about the potential for political protest as the country approaches the 2027 election.
Unlike other political figures who have faced legal challenges, Le Pen has not found a way to navigate past the verdict of the French legal system. Valérie Hayer, a centrist lawmaker, emphasized the importance of judicial independence and the principle that no one is above the law.
This perspective may face criticism in a global context where the legitimacy of legal systems is increasingly questioned. Elon Musk echoed sentiments from the far right, suggesting that legal systems are being abused to target political opponents.
European societies are particularly sensitive to the rise of far-right movements, given their historical context. Political scientist Alain Duhamel warned that the next battleground may be the rule of law itself, with potential attacks coming from various political factions, including Le Pen's National Rally.
Jordan Bardella, Le Pen's protégé, has claimed that French democracy has been undermined by the court's decision. At 29, he is positioned to lead the anti-immigrant party into the upcoming election, although how he separates his ambitions from Le Pen's remains uncertain.
Across Europe, far-right leaders have reacted to the court's decision, with Italy's Matteo Salvini and Hungary's Viktor Orban expressing solidarity with Le Pen. In contrast, critiques from Russia regarding democratic norms are viewed with skepticism.
Le Pen's conviction stems from her misuse of European Union funds intended for party staff, marking a significant shift from her party's past to a more mainstream anti-immigrant stance. Despite her disqualification, she could still influence the political landscape by supporting a no-confidence motion against the centrist government, potentially positioning her party for a strong showing in future parliamentary elections.
While Le Pen cannot defend her current seat in an upcoming election, a significant victory for the National Rally could pave the way for her to become prime minister. Centrist politicians have defended the integrity of the French legal system, asserting that the law applies equally to all citizens, including Le Pen.