Far-Right National Rally Sees Increased Support in France, Poll Suggests

Growing Support for National Rally

A recent poll suggests that 42% of French citizens agree with the ideas espoused by the far-right National Rally (RN) party. This figure represents a 3-point increase from the previous year, highlighting a continued upward trend in public sentiment towards the party in France.

National Rally's Ascent in French Politics

The National Rally, formerly known as the National Front until its rebranding in 2018, has steadily increased its influence in French politics. The party, described as right-wing populist and nationalist, has become the single largest parliamentary opposition party in the National Assembly since 2022. Its growing popularity is evident in various electoral performances. In the 2022 presidential election, then-leader Marine Le Pen secured 41.5% of the votes in the second round, marking the strongest finish for a National Front/National Rally presidential candidate in the party's history. More recently, the RN achieved a significant victory in the 2024 European Parliament elections, coming first with 31.4% of the vote, an 8% increase compared to the 2019 elections. This success prompted President Emmanuel Macron to call a snap legislative election, where the National Rally again emerged with the largest vote share in the first round, securing 33.2%.

Key Figures and Policies

The National Rally's rise has been closely associated with its prominent leaders. Marine Le Pen, who led the party from 2011 to 2021, spearheaded a strategy of 'de-demonisation' to soften the party's image and broaden its appeal, focusing on issues like economic protectionism, national sovereignty, and a strong stance against immigration. She stepped down as party leader in 2022, succeeded by her protégé, Jordan Bardella. Bardella, now the party president, has also shown strong performance in recent polls for the 2027 presidential election, with some surveys in late 2025 projecting him to lead with 35% to 37.5% of the votes in the first round. The party's core platform includes:

• Significant cuts to legal immigration and stricter control of illegal immigration.
• Protection of 'French identity'.
• Emphasis on national sovereignty.
• Economic protectionism.

Broader Political Context

The increasing support for the National Rally is part of a broader trend of growing far-right movements across Europe. Analysts attribute this shift in France to pervasive economic and social discontent, concerns about cultural identity, and a perceived dissatisfaction with mainstream political elites. The party's ability to connect with voters on day-to-day concerns, such as immigration and the cost of living, has contributed to its expanding base, including among younger voters and public sector workers. This sustained growth poses significant challenges for France's traditional political landscape and has implications for European unity.