Marine Le Pen's Electoral Ban Lifted After Selective Prosecution Backlash

What was said

"Le Pen and the party were almost certainly guilty of the offense that they were charged with. I think Le Pen was undoubtedly guilty. But about this, I have no doubt at all. This was a selective prosecution. The French understand their politics and their politicians perfectly well. They understand that the prosecution was selective."

French court sentenced Marine Le Pen to three years in prison with two years suspended and altered her electoral ban, making her technically eligible to run for president in 2027. Political analyst Alexander Mercouris argues that while Le Pen was likely guilty of misappropriating EU funds, the prosecution was selective as such practices are widespread among French politicians. The judges faced public backlash and modified restrictions, requiring Le Pen to wear a monitoring bracelet. Mercouris suggests Le Pen should follow Trump's example and campaign despite her conviction.