Marine Le Pen Reaffirms Rassemblement National's Balanced Economic Strategy Amid Internal Party Tensions

At a May 1 rally in Mâcon, Marine Le Pen reaffirmed the Rassemblement National’s economic stance as a 'middle path' balancing market freedom and state intervention. This declaration came shortly after a public disagreement with party president Jordan Bardella over the issue of taxing 'superprofits' made by TotalEnergies amid the Iran conflict. Le Pen emphasized that the party’s approach is neither extreme nor utopian, drawing inspiration from historical French leaders such as Colbert, Richelieu, and De Gaulle, as well as rhetoric from Jacques Chirac and François Mitterrand, particularly on repairing social fractures and rejecting short-sighted economic logic.

Meanwhile, Bardella articulated his vision of a 'merit-based society' focused on rewarding hard-working citizens and entrepreneurs, advocating for salaries that closely correspond to net pay. He also called for reforms in education, including the implementation of school uniforms and fostering respect for teachers, alongside highlighting the teaching of key historical figures. Bardella criticized political opponents, accusing them of simply perpetuating Emmanuel Macron’s policies over the past decade.

Despite the public disagreement, the two leaders sought to project unity ahead of a forthcoming pivotal court decision on Le Pen’s eligibility for future presidential elections. The rally occurred amid heightened political tensions, as approximately 2,500 individuals protested in Mâcon on May Day, signaling intense public engagement as the 2027 elections approach.