Party Still Dealing With Antisemitism Accusations

The Guardian

Politico Eu

Le Pen Sues Former Party Member Over Antisemitism Claim, Amid Mainstreaming Efforts

Party Still Dealing with Antisemitism Accusations

In a move that highlights the ongoing struggle within her party to shed accusations of antisemitism, Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally, has filed a libel complaint against a former party member. The case underscores the challenges facing Le Pen as she attempts to rebrand her party and distance it from its past.

Push for Mainstream Appeal

For years, Le Pen has worked to push the National Rally into the mainstream and away from the shadow cast by her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, who was convicted of inciting racial hatred. This effort has been met with resistance from some within the party, who have accused Le Pen of abandoning her core values in pursuit of electoral success.

However, as Le Monde columnist Françoise Fressoz noted in a recent article, Le Pen's push for mainstream appeal is to her advantage. It allows her to attract a broader range of voters, including those who may have previously been hesitant to support the National Rally due to its association with extremism.

Antisemitism Controversy

Despite Le Pen's efforts to rebrand the party, antisemitism remains a lingering issue for the National Rally. Jewish groups in France have expressed concern over Le Pen's stated desire to ban the slaughter of animals without prior stunning, a practice that is required by Jewish religious law.

The libel complaint filed by Le Pen against her former party member stems from accusations that she made antisemitic remarks. The case is expected to be closely watched as it could have implications for the National Rally's image and its efforts to gain broader acceptance.