Marine Le Pen: The Establishment Dropped a Political Nuclear Bomb Against Me

Following yesterday’s (31.03.2025) verdict for misuse of public funds, Marine Le Pen’s party condemned the verdict as an attack on the ‘system,’ stating that the establishment had dropped a political nuclear bomb against her. The judicial conviction against the leader of France’s far-right National Rally was due to her use of funds from the European Parliament between 2004 and 2016, intended for assistants of MEPs, but instead used through fictitious contracts to pay party members. She was sentenced with a five-year ban from running for office, immediate effect, four years imprisonment (two suspended, two house arrest), and a fine of €100,000. Le Pen has announced her intention to appeal the decision. This ruling jeopardizes her candidacy for the 2027 presidential elections, where polls show her as a favorite. Several international figures, including Russia’s Kremlin, Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, Italy’s Matteo Salvini, Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro, Elon Musk, and Donald Trump have expressed support. Le Pen accused the judiciary of interfering in the 2027 presidential race, calling it an extreme measure by the establishment. French Prime Minister François Bayrou offered unconditional support to the judges who issued the ruling, emphasizing its independence and non-political nature. Mixed reactions emerged among French politicians, with socialists, environmentalists, and communists demanding respect for the law. Le Pen plans to appeal, hoping for a retrial within a timeframe allowing her participation in the elections. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin requested the trial be conducted within a reasonable time, noting the Paris Court of Appeal’s independence in setting the date for the appeal. A rally supporting Le Pen is scheduled for Sunday in Paris.