‘Politicians have always been schemers’: upheld conviction fails to dent Le Pen’s popularity
Marine Le Pen has launched a new presidential campaign following a court decision that reduced her legal restrictions despite upholding an embezzlement conviction. Supporters in her base remain largely unfazed by the legal controversy.
Why it matters
The resilience of Le Pen's popularity despite legal challenges underscores the deep political polarization and anti-establishment sentiment in France.
Marine Le Pen in Paris on Wednesday when she announced her latest presidential campaign. Photograph: Jeanne Accorsini/Sipa/Shutterstock Marine Le Pen in Paris on Wednesday when she announced her latest presidential campaign. Photograph: Jeanne Accorsini/Sipa/Shutterstock Marine Le Pen ‘Politicians have always been schemers’: upheld conviction fails to dent Le Pen’s popularity Presidential bid by leader of far-right National Rally has no shortage of supporters in scenic Montargis
Angelique Chrisafis in Montargis Sat 11 Jul 2026 04.00 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google In the small French town of Montargis, Jean-Antoine, a retired decorator, was pleased Marine Le Pen had again shaken up French politics by launching a bid for the presidency , despite her legal woes.
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