Rassemblement National prepares for Orléans congress amid controversy

The Rassemblement National (RN) is preparing for its upcoming congress in Orléans on October 24-25. Party President Jordan Bardella has recently increased media presence, holding a press conference to address security concerns following urban violence in Paris on October 17. Bardella linked the unrest to massive immigration, describing the situation as one of France's greatest security failures.

The party faces scrutiny regarding its ideological foundations and recent allegations of antisemitism. Critics argue the RN utilizes a double discourse to maintain media respectability while maintaining ties to nationalist and identitarian movements. Amidst these tensions, Marine Le Pen has issued video statements, and the party continues to advocate for policies such as the prohibition of the hijab in public spaces under the guise of secularism.