On March 30, 2025, Arnaud Benedetti, a noted political analyst, raised eyebrows during an appearance on CNEWS, where he warned that the youth and relative inexperience of Jordan Bardella, the president of France's National Rally (RN) party, could hinder his chances in the next presidential election. Benedetti's remarks come at a time when Bardella, only 29 years old, is already considered a rising star in French politics, particularly as he navigates the complex terrain of public opinion and party reputation.
Bardella's leadership of the RN has not been without controversy. He has faced accusations of harboring antisemitic sentiments within his party, a legacy that traces back to its founder, Jean-Marie Le Pen. However, Bardella is adamant about distancing the party from its past. "Our party today is not the National Front party of the past. In 2018, Madam Marine Le Pen broke her connection with her father, precisely on this background," he stated, emphasizing his commitment to reforming the party's image.
During a recent conference in Jerusalem titled "Ambassadors of Truth," Bardella underscored the importance of combating antisemitism in France, citing a staggering 1,500 antisemitic acts recorded since October 7, 2023, the highest number ever. "Unfortunately, in France, 1,500 antisemitic acts have been recorded since October 7, the highest number ever. That's why we need to fight it. And this is a cross-border struggle that explains my presence here today at this conference," he explained. This event, organized by Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli, aimed to bring together leaders who are committed to addressing the threats posed by radical Islam.
Despite the controversies, Bardella appears to enjoy substantial support within segments of the Jewish community. He claimed that "seven out of ten people in the Jewish community support his party," a statement that reflects his efforts to rebrand the RN and connect with younger voters. His reception at the conference was enthusiastic, with attendees chanting, "Jordan for president," a clear indication of his growing appeal.
However, Bardella is aware that gaining complete legitimacy from the entire Jewish community is a gradual process. "Trust is something that needs to be built. You can't force people to believe you or declare it," he noted, acknowledging the challenges ahead.
In the wake of the October 7 attacks, which resulted in the deaths of 50 French citizens, Bardella has been vocal about the need for a rigorous security policy in France. He expressed concern over the rising influence of radical Islam in French society, stating, "France and the European Union are indeed at a crossroads regarding our future. In the last 30 years, immigration policy in the European Union has not been under control." He believes that unchecked immigration has allowed communities that harbor extremist ideologies to flourish.
Bardella's proposed solutions are both controversial and bold. He advocates for the expulsion of foreign citizens who have become radicalized and the closure of mosques and schools that promote extremist ideologies. "We want to end the uncontrolled immigration that has been in France for a very long time, and we really need to fight for our soul against radical Islam," he asserted.
In a discussion about the broader geopolitical implications, Bardella emphasized the necessity of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, stating, "The Iranian regime clearly wants to erase Israel, but we don't have the information that Donald Trump has." He acknowledged the shared interests between France and Israel in countering threats from radical Islamic movements.
As the political landscape evolves, Bardella's leadership style and policies will be put to the test. His recent book, "Ce que je cherche," which has sold over 206,000 copies since its release, reflects his vision for the party and his ambitions for the future. The book's success is a testament to his growing influence and the interest in his political journey.
On March 8, 2025, Bardella participated in a book signing event in Valenciennes, where he spent six hours engaging with supporters. This event not only showcased his popularity but also highlighted the political reconciliation within the RN, particularly with figures like Sébastien Chenu, who had previously critiqued Bardella's approach.
The dynamic within the RN is complex, as Bardella balances the need to modernize the party while addressing its historical baggage. His ability to navigate these waters will be crucial as he positions himself for a potential presidential run.
In summary, Jordan Bardella stands at a pivotal moment in his political career. With the backing of a significant portion of the Jewish community and a clear agenda to combat radicalism, he is poised to challenge the status quo. However, as Benedetti pointed out, his youth and experience may pose challenges in a competitive electoral landscape. As the next presidential election approaches, all eyes will be on Bardella to see if he can transform his party's image and secure a place in the future of French politics.
