Marine Le Pen’s political ambitions are waning following her conviction, paving the way for Jordan Bardella, the 29-year-old RN leader and her protégé, to potentially become France’s first far-right presidential candidate without the Le Pen surname. Bardella, known for his relatable background and rising popularity, has positioned himself as a serious contender for higher office. Meanwhile, Le Pen, despite setbacks, hints at a future in politics, suggesting Bardella could succeed her if necessary.
Marine Le Pen’s Political Future and Bardella’s Rise
Following her conviction, Marine Le Pen’s aspirations to run for the presidency are diminishing. For the first time in history, a candidate from the far-right in France may emerge who does not carry the Le Pen surname: the youthful RN leader, Jordan Bardella.
Introducing Jordan Bardella
Jordan Bardella, at just 29 years old, hails from Seine-Saint-Denis, an area in the northeastern part of the Paris metropolitan region known for its socio-economic challenges and crime rates. He often shares his story of growing up in a high-rise housing estate as the son of a single mother. However, he tends to omit that he also spent time in more affluent neighborhoods with his father and attended a Catholic private school.
Bardella’s political journey has been notable. He transitioned from party spokesperson and head of the youth organization to serving as vice president and eventually taking the reins as interim president. Over two years ago, he became the leader of the Rassemblement National (RN), marking a significant milestone as the first leader in the party’s 50-year history not to be a Le Pen. Interestingly, he was briefly linked romantically to a niece of Le Pen.
As the face of the far-right RN, Jordan Bardella is positioned as a potential Prime Minister of France. But who exactly is he?
Bardella’s National Recognition
Jordan Bardella is gaining prominence in France, known for his eloquence and media presence. Since ascending to the leadership of the RN, his visibility has surged, and he frequently ranks high in popularity polls, often surpassing Le Pen, who currently holds the parliamentary leadership. The release of his autobiographical book, ‘Ce que je cherche’ (translated as ‘What I Am Looking For’), was a commercial success last autumn. Unlike many of his political peers from elite backgrounds, Bardella is perceived as relatable and down-to-earth, endearing him to his supporters, who simply refer to him as ‘Jordan.’
Bardella often adopts a statesmanlike posture, as seen during his visit to a bunker in southern Israel alongside EU parliament member and RN colleague Fabrice Leggeri.
The Connection with Marine Le Pen
Bardella’s swift ascent can largely be attributed to Marine Le Pen, who mentored him after he joined the party, then known as Front National. He is widely regarded as Le Pen’s protégé and political godson. Their close relationship is frequently highlighted, evident when Bardella shared a photo of them embracing after Le Pen’s court verdict.
Amidst accusations from party colleague Tanguy about a ‘blood revenge of the system,’ the question arises: Could Bardella, despite his youth, ascend to the highest office in the land?
Indeed, during the recent parliamentary elections, Bardella was the RN’s leading candidate, with the campaign slogan ‘Bardella Prime Minister.’ For a time, polls indicated that the right-wing party could emerge victorious. However, the left coalition ultimately secured the win, which took many by surprise.
While Bardella’s composed demeanor is seen as an asset, there are ongoing concerns regarding his steadfastness on economic issues during the campaign. The ruling against Le Pen shocked many, eliciting mixed reactions.
Le Pen’s Future and Bardella’s Potential
Initially, after Le Pen’s third unsuccessful bid for the Élysée Palace in 2022, it appeared she might step aside for Bardella in 2027. Yet, her renewed ambitions became evident, especially following the recent court ruling that complicates her path forward.
As Le Pen prepares to appeal, the process is expected to be lengthy, and she has hinted that Bardella could be her successor if needed. ‘Jordan Bardella is an invaluable asset to our party, and I’ve said that consistently. I hope we won’t have to rely on this option sooner than necessary,’ she remarked.
This evolving political landscape showcases the dynamic nature of France’s far-right and the potential future of its leadership.