France faces far‑right surge ahead of 2027 presidential election

A Guardian editorial warns that France is not treating the growing strength of the far‑right seriously as the 2027 presidential election approaches. The piece notes that Marine Le Pen is appealing a five‑year ineligibility ruling; if the appeal fails, Jordan Bardella, 30, could become the National Rally’s candidate.

Polls suggest a fragmented field of around 35 potential candidates, raising the possibility of a second‑round contest between Bardella and left‑wing leader Jean‑Luc Mélenchon. Analysts point to the risk that a divided vote could enable the far‑right to advance, underscoring concerns about political instability and low public confidence in mainstream parties.