Marine Le Pen, the French far-right leader, faces the possibility of being barred from the 2027 presidential election if found guilty of embezzlement on Monday. Prosecutors have accused Le Pen and other members of the National Rally of embezzling $4.8 million in European Union funds. Le Pen denies the charges, arguing that the law she can be banned under was not in place at the time of the alleged scheme.
If convicted, Le Pen could face a five-year sentence, a fine, and a five-year ban on holding public office. The potential disqualification would prevent her from running in the 2027 presidential election, where she is seen as a strong candidate if eligible. Her party, the National Rally, has not speculated on the consequences of a possible ban, but her protege, Jordan Bardella, is seen as a potential successor.
The trial comes at a time of political instability in France, with President Macron’s term ending and the far-right gaining momentum across Europe. The possibility of Le Pen being disqualified has raised concerns about democracy and the fairness of the political system.
If the verdict goes against Le Pen, the 2027 election would be the first in nearly 40 years without a Le Pen on the ballot. The trial has drawn attention from international figures, including Vice President JD Vance, who criticize European states for stifling the far right and undermining democracy. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for French politics and the future of the far-right movement in Europe.
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