French Far-Right Leader Marine Le Pen Starts Presidential Bid in Orleans

Marine Le Pen has launched her campaign to succeed President Emmanuel Macron, addressing thousands of supporters in Orleans on Sunday. The far-right candidate told an audience of 8,500 people that she aims to restore the rule of law and protect France's cultural identity.

Campaign Promises

The 58-year-old politician promised tougher immigration measures, including establishing double borders at both French and European levels. She stated that French nationality will become a privilege that people either inherit or earn. Her deputy, Jordan Bardella, received a standing ovation after pledging to crack down on the ultra-left, lower the age of criminal responsibility to 16, and deport criminals. His speech faced a brief interruption when members of a Jewish student union displayed a banner about media reports regarding an old Facebook account.

Unrest and Protests

The campaign launch follows a weekend of widespread demonstrations across France over the rising cost of living, which drew over 400,000 participants. Looting and arson occurred on the sidelines of these marches, leading police to make more than 1,300 arrests. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez blamed the violence on ultra-left extremists. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu scheduled talks with high school student groups following weeks of student protests over school conditions.

Context

Marine Le Pen has run for the French presidency three times previously and currently leads in opinion polls amid ongoing national unrest. The upcoming two-stage presidential election is scheduled to take place in the coming year, with voting set for April and May.