Marine Le Pen formally launched her campaign for the French presidency yesterday in Hénin-Beaumont, her party’s northern stronghold, reiterating a central pledge to give French citizens priority in social housing, welfare, and government employment. As the leader of the far-right Rassemblment National, Le Pen framed this “national preference” policy as a matter of justice and morality, despite criticism from opponents who describe it as divisive, unconstitutional, and xenophobic.
Le Pen emphasized that implementing this policy would require a constitutional amendment, likely through a referendum, as it currently conflicts with both France’s constitution and European Union laws. She acknowledged these legal and political hurdles but insisted such a move would not be negative but rather a basic act of fairness. This “national preference” concept has long been a cornerstone of her party’s platform since its founding by her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, in the 1970s.
In her speech, Le Pen sought to reaffirm the Rassemblment National’s identity at a time of internal debate over sensitive issues such as banning the Muslim veil in public spaces and pension reforms. By doing so, she aimed to solidify her position as the uncontested leader of the party, especially after recent legal challenges. Earlier this year, an appeals court confirmed her conviction for corruption but shortened an electoral ban, allowing her to remain eligible for the upcoming election.
Polling data indicate Le Pen is poised to capture over 30 percent of the vote in the first round of the presidential race scheduled for next spring. Most survey scenarios also suggest she could prevail in runoff contests. Her main competitors include incumbent President Emmanuel Macron, center-right former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, and far-left contender Jean-Luc Mélenchon, with the campaign unfolding amid economic uncertainty and political instability.
France has faced slower economic growth, rising borrowing costs, and parliamentary gridlock in recent months, complicating efforts to balance the budget and sustain public services. In her campaign launch, Le Pen promised to restore France’s stature by improving damaged public services and reducing what she termed “fiscal plunder” imposed by the state’s regulatory and tax policies. Additionally, she presented a new plan to tackle the country’s housing crisis, underscoring her broader political agenda.
As the presidential contest begins, Le Pen’s positioning highlights growing divisions in French politics over immigration, national identity, and France’s relationship with the European Union. Her platform continues to provoke debate over the balance between national sovereignty and European integration, as well as tensions surrounding social cohesion and inclusive policymaking.