French Far-Right Mobilizes in Support of Marine Le Pen After Conviction

France’s far-right political movement is rallying behind its leader, Marine Le Pen, following a shock court ruling that convicted her of embezzlement and banned her from holding public office, casting a shadow over her presidential bid for 2027.

The ruling, issued earlier this week, has sent political shockwaves through the country, drawing criticism even from some of Le Pen’s ideological opponents who argue she should still be allowed to run in the next election. Le Pen, 56, has lodged an appeal, and the Paris Court of Appeal is expected to review the case in the coming months—leaving a narrow window that could still make her candidacy possible if the verdict is overturned.

Despite the conviction, Le Pen remains a powerful political force. A recent Elabe poll places her at 36% in first-round voter intention, keeping her ahead of all declared and potential candidates for the 2027 presidential race.

In response to the court decision, Le Pen’s Rassemblement National (RN) party has organized a large rally in Place Vauban, Paris, set for Sunday.

Jordan Bardella, 29, the RN’s party president and Le Pen’s political heir apparent, insisted the rally was a pro-democracy demonstration, not an attack on French institutions. “This is a mobilisation in support of French democracy,” Bardella said, adding that Le Pen’s conviction had only strengthened the party’s resolve and public backing.