VALERY HACHE / AFP
Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella, photographed in Nice last October. (Photo illustration)
POLITIQUE – Mormant-sur-Vernisson. This village in Loiret, housing fewer than 150 souls, will host the crème de la crème of the European far-right during a meeting on Monday, June 9, organized by the National Rally (Rassemblement National). The event features prominent guests such as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, and the leader of the Spanish far-right (Vox), Santiago Abascal, alongside local figures Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella.
The objective of this gathering, according to the RN, is to celebrate a “historical victory on June 9, 2024,” during the European elections . This election marked a surge of the far-right across the Old Continent , subsequently leading to President Emmanuel Macron dissolving the National Assembly in France. While the RN’s support increased by eight points from 2019 to 2024, Orbán’s party, Fidesz, actually suffered a decline during this vote. They lost nearly nine points, and as a result, the number of their euro-deputies dropped from 13 to 10. However, such numbers seem to pale in comparison to the festive atmosphere as the far-right continues to gain ground in Europe, despite not monopolizing every political landscape.
“Demonstration of Strength”
“The Patriot’s Day celebration is much more than just a gathering — it is a demonstration of strength , solidarity, and a common purpose for a new Europe based on sovereignty, identity, and freedom,” proclaims the Le Pen party. However, this festive interlude arguably serves as a critical distraction from internal dilemmas. Following Le Pen’s sentencing for embezzlement and immediate disqualification from political office, her capacity to run in 2027 has been significantly compromised, shaking the very foundation of the party.
Surrounding this turmoil are rising tensions regarding the upcoming presidential election. Some party members question the irresponsibility of persisting with Le Pen’s candidacy, given the uncertain prospects tied to pending legal appeals expected in the summer of 2026. This uncertainty has led many to rally behind Jordan Bardella, inciting frustrations among Le Pen loyalists. “In the Assembly, it’s clear that the proclaimed Le Pen supporters are anxious. If Bardella takes the lead, their political prospects could vanish,” quipped a LR deputy, suggesting visible unease among lepenista colleagues.
Old Demons
Recent news has also shed light on longstanding issues plaguing the RN. A report on June 3 revealed that nine RN lawmakers were part of a Facebook group that regularly shared racist , antisemitic , and homophobic sentiments. These disclosures surfaced amidst heightened sensitivity following a racially motivated attack in Puget-sur-Argens on May 31. The alleged perpetrator had posted content suggesting support for the RN, leading to awkward coping within party lines where few members expressed outrage about the association.
This international celebration is crucial for Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella, even as counter-rallies are organized in neighboring communities. Notable political figures, including PS elected representatives Philippe Brun and Chloé Ridel, as well as leftist Louis Boyard and Communist Senator Ian Brossat, are expected to join efforts opposing the RN. Figures from civil society, such as union leader Sophie Binet and *Mediapart* founder Edwy Plenel, will also be present. Even amidst their celebratory events, the far-right finds adversaries determined to challenge their narratives.