Marine Le Pen launches French presidential campaign in Orléans
One Turn followed this story across 2 editions, from Orléans, France on October 24, 2026. Newest first.
Le Pen leads the National Rally party and has run for president three times before. President Emmanuel Macron cannot seek another term. Thousands marched against her party in Orléans on Saturday.
Marine Le Pen launched her campaign for France's next presidential election at a rally of about 10,000 supporters in Orléans. She promised a national "rebirth" and "zero tolerance" policing. She also pledged tougher rules on immigration and to "restore the rule of law." Polls give her up to 38% six months before the vote.
Why it matters: The front-runner's campaign begins as France faces weeks of mass protests and rising borrowing costs.
Marine Le Pen began her presidential campaign at the National Rally's two-day party congress in Orléans. Thousands of people marched peacefully through the city to protest against the party. Local authorities put special security measures in place, and many shops were boarded up.
Why it matters: The congress opens the race for France's 2027 presidential election, in which the National Rally is a leading contender.