Marine Le Pen has strongly criticized the possibility of being barred from running in France’s 2027 presidential race, calling it “profoundly undemocratic.” She warned that such a decision would rob the French people of their right to choose their president.
In just two weeks, a Paris judge will rule on whether Le Pen can stand for the 2027 election, a decision that could shake up French politics ahead of the race. The case centers around a long-running investigation into the alleged misuse of EU funds by RN parliamentary assistants. Prosecutors are pushing for a five-year sentence, including two years of prison time and five years of ineligibility to hold office, even if Le Pen appeals.
An ineligibility ruling would take immediate effect, blocking her from running in both the legislative and presidential elections, if convicted of embezzling public funds. This “immediate execution” request is unusual and would prevent her from participating in the race unless overturned on appeal.
The French Constitutional Council will decide whether such a request is constitutional. Mayotte politician Rachadi Saindou has challenged a similar ruling, and the council’s decision could impact Le Pen’s case. The council has until April 3 to issue its opinion, but it may rule before Le Pen’s verdict on March 31.
Despite the looming legal battle, Le Pen remains confident. Polls from December 2024 show her as a strong contender for the presidential race. She insists she’s “extremely calm” about the court’s decision, adding, “I’m a fighter” and noting that legal challenges are part of the political game.
Le Pen also expressed concern about a recent situation in Romania, where nationalist politician Călin Georgescu was blocked from running for president. She drew a parallel, saying that in both Romania and France, some believe that if an election doesn’t go the “right” way, the system must be manipulated until the desired result is achieved.
