In a surprising turn of events, Marine Le Pen, the prominent leader of the Rassemblement National (RN), expressed her frustration over a recent poll that could potentially reshape the dynamics of the party's leadership as they approach the 2027 presidential election. During a group meeting on Monday, May 6, 2025, Le Pen took issue with the findings of a survey that positioned her party's current president, Jordan Bardella, as the frontrunner for the upcoming election.
The poll, commissioned by a think tank connected to liberal-conservative entrepreneur Pierre-Edouard Stérin, was conducted by IFOP and released on May 5, 2025. It revealed that Bardella garnered over 30% of the voting intentions among approximately 10,000 respondents, significantly overshadowing Le Pen, who has long been the face of the party.
This unexpected outcome has stirred a sense of panic within the RN, as Le Pen's team was reportedly caught off guard by the poll's singular focus on Bardella, leaving her name absent from the primary consideration. In response to the poll, Le Pen's inner circle quickly mobilized to demand a follow-up survey that would include her as a candidate, seeking to reaffirm her standing within the party.
Jean-Michel Aphatie, a notable journalist, commented on the situation, noting that the poll has not only highlighted Bardella's rising prominence but has also introduced a rift within the RN. The implications of Bardella's growing popularity could challenge Le Pen's longstanding leadership and influence over the party's direction.
As the RN prepares for the crucial 2027 election, the dynamics at play are complex. Le Pen, who has positioned herself as a stalwart advocate for the party's platform, now faces the reality that her successor could emerge sooner than anticipated. The poll's results indicate a shift in voter sentiment, suggesting that Bardella's appeal may resonate more effectively with the electorate.
Furthermore, the connection between the think tank and Le Pen's team raises questions about the internal politics of the RN. The Hexagone institute, which conducted the poll, operates from the offices of Stérin's investment fund, with François Durvye, an economic advisor to Le Pen, playing a pivotal role in the organization. This relationship adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding narrative, as it underscores the interconnectedness of political and economic interests within the party.
As the RN navigates these turbulent waters, the stakes are high. Le Pen's ability to maintain her influence and rally support will be tested in the coming months. The party's base, which has historically rallied around her leadership, may now be tempted to embrace the fresh perspective that Bardella represents.
The political landscape in France is evolving, and with it, the strategies of the RN must adapt to the changing sentiments of the electorate. Bardella's emergence as a potential candidate signals a generational shift within the party, one that could redefine its future trajectory.
In light of these developments, Le Pen's reaction to the poll reflects not only her personal stakes in the election but also the broader implications for the RN's identity and strategy as they approach a pivotal moment in French politics. The upcoming months will be crucial as both leaders seek to solidify their positions and appeal to voters.
As the 2027 presidential election draws nearer, the RN must grapple with the realities of its internal dynamics while also addressing the external pressures of a changing political landscape. With Bardella's rising popularity and Le Pen's established presence, the party faces a unique challenge: how to unify its base while also embracing the evolving preferences of its supporters.
Ultimately, the outcomes of these political maneuvers will not only influence the RN's chances in the upcoming election but could also have lasting effects on the party's identity and direction in the years to come. As the dust settles from this poll, one thing is clear: the battle for leadership within the RN is just beginning.
