Marine Le Pen exploring various routes to clear path to presidential run – despite electoral ban
Marine Le Pen is serving an electoral ban in France. But she still eyes route to the presidency
- Marine Le Pen is currently banned from standing for public office for five years following her conviction in March for embezzling European parliament funds.
- The ban, which includes a 'provisional execution' measure, means it applies regardless of her ongoing appeal process.
- Le Pen's appeal trial against the embezzlement charges is scheduled to commence on 13 January 2026, with a ruling expected in summer 2026.
- Despite the ban, her National Rally party is reportedly exploring two potential methods to allow her to contest the 2027 presidential election.
- These methods include an 'amnesty bill' if a snap election grants the National Rally a parliamentary majority, or a constitutional appeal if her candidacy is rejected.