Marine Le Pen launches presidential campaign amid embezzlement conviction

Marine Le Pen launched her presidential campaign on Wednesday, announcing her candidacy despite a recent embezzlement conviction that could bar her from office. The far‑right figure, who has long been a polarizing presence in French politics, began a new campaign tour across key regions, emphasizing a platform that focuses on national sovereignty, immigration control, and economic protectionism. Her announcement follows a legal decision issued on Tuesday that upheld her conviction, a ruling that she now seeks to overturn in a last‑ditch appeal.

According to Clovis Casali, the campaign’s chief strategist, Le Pen’s move is a high‑stakes gamble that hinges on the outcome of the appeal. Casali explained that the appeal could potentially restore her eligibility to run, but it also risks further damaging her credibility if it fails. He noted that the campaign is proceeding with the assumption that the legal challenge will succeed, while preparing contingency plans should the court uphold the conviction. The outcome of the appeal will be closely watched, as it could determine whether Le Pen’s bid for the presidency proceeds or is halted by the judiciary.