Gérard Larcher calls for unified right to prevent RN-LFI presidential duel

French Senate President Gérard Larcher has called for the right and center to unite behind a single candidate for the 2027 presidential election. His goal is to prevent a potential runoff between Marine Le Pen of the Rassemblement National (RN) and Jean-Luc Mélenchon of La France insoumise (LFI), a scenario he described as “mortiferous for my country.”

Larcher criticized both major parties. He accused LFI of having a “dangerous complacency toward radical Islam” and contributing to an “atmosphere of antisemitism.” Simultaneously, he challenged the RN’s economic credibility, citing their support for 34 billion euros in new taxes in the 2026 budget. He also rejected the RN's proposal to ban the veil in public spaces, calling it “demagogic” and legally unfeasible.

Internal tensions are also mounting within the Rassemblement National. Reports indicate a growing rift between Marine Le Pen and party president Jordan Bardella. The friction stems from differing political visions and disagreements over key issues such as pension reform and immigration. Tensions reportedly escalated following Le Pen’s desire to bring Marion Maréchal back into the political fold, leading to clashes between the two leaders as the 2027 campaign approaches.