Jordan Bardella, an influential figure in the Rassemblement National (RN) party, has recently made changes within the party by removing certain members, such as Jean-Lin Lacapelle and André Rougé. These individuals were not included in the top 30 of the party’s list of candidates for the upcoming election. Despite this, they have followed the party’s directive to avoid drawing too much attention to themselves during their time in the European Parliament. The RN party has maintained a consistent stance since 2019, following the same path as the Front National under Jean-Marie Le Pen and Marine Le Pen.
There are various interpretations of the RN’s lack of action within the European Parliament. Some attribute it to the “cordon sanitaire” imposed by other parliamentary groups, which limits the responsibilities and influence of the RN’s European group. Others see it as a strategic choice to distance themselves from what they view as a pro-European agenda and avoid being associated with decisions made in Brussels. Some insiders within the party suggest that it may be a combination of laziness and incompetence. The reality likely lies at the intersection of these factors, according to sources within the European Parliament, members of other parliamentary groups, and past and present members of the RN delegation.
Philippe Olivier, a special advisor to Marine Le Pen and a Member of the European Parliament, refutes the idea that the lack of action from the RN is deliberate. He argues that the party is restricted in its activities within the European Parliament and is often treated with condescension by other parliamentary groups. Despite this, Olivier acknowledges that there is a strategic element to the RN’s approach, as they choose not to engage in what they see as a futile game orchestrated by others. According to him, the real decision-making power lies with the European Commission, not the individual members of parliament.
The RN’s approach to their role in the European Parliament has been described as “tribunician” by some members. This term refers to the role of a tribune, who represents the interests of the people against the elite. By positioning themselves as outsiders within the European Parliament, the RN may be attempting to appeal to a certain segment of the French electorate that is disillusioned with the European project. However, this strategy has its limitations, as it also means that the party is unable to fully participate in the decision-making processes that shape EU policy.
As the RN prepares for the upcoming election, there are questions about the party’s future direction and its ability to effectively represent the interests of its supporters within the European Parliament. Regardless of the internal dynamics within the party, it is clear that the RN’s approach to European politics is characterized by a combination of strategic calculation, ideological positioning, and a desire to maintain a distinct identity within the broader political landscape. The outcome of the election will likely have significant implications for the future of the RN and its role within the European Union.
