Jordan Bardella’s Address to National Rally Lawmakers
Jordan Bardella, the president of the far-right National Rally, welcomed the party’s 125 newly elected lawmakers at the National Assembly, France’s lower house of Parliament. He expressed pride in the lawmakers for their achievements but also emphasized the importance of upholding the credibility of the party’s project and maintaining impeccable conduct in their interactions with the public and media.
Challenges Faced by the National Rally
The National Rally’s recent snap parliamentary elections were marred by controversies, including candidates making racist remarks, displaying past antisemitic comments, and facing criticism for pro-Kremlin positions. These issues led to a third-place finish for the party, despite initial expectations of a stronger performance. The National Rally now faces a critical juncture as it prepares for the upcoming presidential elections in 2027.
The National Rally’s Image Transformation
In recent years, the National Rally has made efforts to sanitize its public image and distance itself from anti-immigrant bigotry and Nazi nostalgia. Despite these efforts, the party’s election results indicate that it has not fully convinced voters of its credibility and readiness to govern. The need to shed past associations and project a more respectable image remains a significant challenge for the National Rally.
Protests Against the National Rally
Following the first round of elections, protests against the National Rally took place at Place de la République in Paris. These demonstrations reflect the ongoing social and political concerns surrounding the party and its positions, highlighting the divisions and controversies that continue to shape its public perception.
