David Rachline Distances Himself from RN Ahead of 2026 Municipal Elections Amid Legal Troubles

David Rachline, mayor of Fréjus and longtime figure within the Rassemblement National (RN), is stepping back from the party as France prepares for the March 2026 municipal elections. Unlike in previous campaigns, Rachline is running without the RN label, choosing not to display the party’s logo on his campaign materials. This marks a significant shift in his political stance and relationship with Marine Le Pen's party.

Marine Le Pen confirmed on BFMTV that Rachline did not seek the RN’s official endorsement this time, and she indicated that he will likely no longer serve as the party’s vice-president, although she declined to specify the reasons. This departure comes amid ongoing legal controversies surrounding Rachline, who faces a trial for illegal interests, with a verdict expected on January 27.

Rachline, aged 37, has been publicly criticized for alleged corruption, including rigged contracts and collusion with a local construction magnate, as detailed in the investigative book "Les Rapaces" by journalist Camille Vigogne Le Coat. These accusations have cast a shadow over his political career and contributed to the party’s distancing from him.

Meanwhile, the RN is intensifying its municipal election efforts, aiming to field up to 700 candidates—including over 600 already invested—and focusing on winning key municipalities such as Menton and Cagnes-sur-Mer in the Alpes-Maritimes.

Rachline’s removal from the vice-presidency and exclusion from the RN’s candidate list mark a clear rupture with the party after years of close association, demonstrating the RN’s efforts to renew its image and candidate roster ahead of crucial local elections.