Overview
- Appearing on CNews and Europe 1, Le Pen said Bardella is facing a campaign of denigration driven by those who fear the RN winning future elections.
- She countered questions about his competence by highlighting his years of RN activism in difficult territories such as Seine-Saint-Denis and his leadership of the party since 2022.
- The scrutiny intensified after a tense France 2 “Quelle Époque!” appearance where Bardella faced audience mockery and criticism over hesitant answers.
- Recent Odoxa polling reported by French media places Bardella first in projected first-round voting for 2027 and favorable in hypothetical second rounds.
- An appeal hearing set for early 2026 will determine whether Le Pen remains eligible, with the party preparing Bardella as the likely nominee if her ineligibility is upheld.