Marine Le Pen’s political trajectory shifted dramatically in June following the sudden dissolution of the National Assembly by French President Emmanuel Macron. Six months later—after early elections, the appointment and subsequent ousting of Michel Barnier, and his replacement by François Bayrou—Le Pen, leader of the National Rally, holds significant influence over the French government.
Despite Macron’s efforts, his government’s fate remains tied to the will of the far-right, as the New People’s Front of the Left and other progressive factions lack a unified candidate to secure a parliamentary majority. Le Pen, who has run for president three times and reached the runoff twice, has transformed her party into a dominant force on the French right. In the last parliamentary elections, she garnered over 10 million votes, bringing her closer than ever to achieving her family’s long-held presidential ambitions.
However, Le Pen’s political future hangs in the balance, with a critical court decision on March 31 regarding allegations of misusing EU funds potentially barring her from holding public office for five years. The coming months will shape the future of France’s government, Macron’s presidency, and Le Pen’s political career as she remains at the center of this turbulent moment.
Key Points from Marine Le Pen’s point of view:
- On François Bayrou as Prime Minister: Le Pen expressed skepticism, emphasizing that Bayrou was appointed to draft a budget accommodating the demands of the three major political forces in the National Assembly. She warned that a budget resembling Michel Barnier’s would face the same issues.
- On Submitting a No-Confidence Motion: Le Pen confirmed that her party would file a no-confidence motion if the government failed to meet their demands. Highlighting France’s high tax burden and inefficient spending, she stated, “We cannot raise taxes when people are struggling to pay their energy bills.”
- On Macron’s Responsibility: Le Pen accused Macron of destabilizing the country, citing his creation of €1 trillion in debt over seven years and the dissolution of parliament, which led to his political losses.
- On Euroscepticism: While Le Pen clarified she is not anti-Europe, she criticized the EU as undemocratic and a threat to national sovereignty. She argued for limiting free movement to the Schengen area and addressing asylum cases at consulates abroad.
- On Immigration Policies: Le Pen proposed revoking free movement for non-Schengen nationals and emphasized that each country should bear responsibility for its immigration policies.
- On Ukraine: Le Pen reiterated her belief that Ukraine cannot win the war without NATO intervention, which would risk World War III. She expressed hope that Donald Trump’s return to the White House could lead to a diplomatic resolution.
- On Trump’s Return: While Le Pen viewed Trump’s potential return favorably for America, she acknowledged the challenges it might pose for Europe, particularly France, which remains dependent on the EU to protect its economic interests.
