France’s Le Pen convicted of graft, barred from running for president in 2027

A French court on Monday prohibited French far-right leader Marine Le Pen from competing in the 2027 presidential election following her conviction for embezzlement, in a significant ruling that could escalate international tensions regarding judicial interventions in politics.

The decision made by the French court was a disastrous blow for Le Pen, 56. The leader of the National Rally (RN) party is among the most notable personalities of the European far right and is currently a leading candidate in polls for France’s 2027 election.

The decision may have significant impacts on French politics, disrupting the competition to replace President Emmanuel Macron and adding further strain on his frail minority government weakened by months of ongoing crises. It is expected to heighten the increasing global frustration among right-wing leaders regarding unselected judges interfering in their authority.

During a prime time television interview on TF1, Le Pen declared her innocence and stated that she would file an appeal as soon as she could against what she termed a politicized decision intended to obstruct her presidential campaign. She mentioned that she was presently not in the race for 2027, but would keep advocating for her future.

Le Pen’s five-year prohibition from public office cannot be halted through appeal, but she will keep her parliamentary position until her term concludes. She was also sentenced to four years in prison—two years suspended and two years to be spent under home detention—along with a fine of 100,000 euros ($108,200), though these terms will take effect only after her appeals are concluded.

Billionaire Elon Musk, who has advocated for the impeachment of U.S. judges hindering President Donald Trump’s plans, while also backing European far-right leaders, claimed a conspiracy by the establishment regarding Le Pen’s removal.