France’s Le Pen vows to restore ‘rule of law’ at presidential campaign launch

Far-right French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen inaugurated her campaign at a rally in Orléans, addressing a crowd of supporters. She pledged to overhaul France, stating it is not a revolutionary act but a regular part of democratic life. Le Pen, currently leading in the polls, expressed frustration with the lack of security and justice under President Emmanuel Macron, pledging more protection for citizens and calling for an end to lax legal practices.

She criticized the government's handling of protests, demanding certainty in legal matters and the expulsion of foreign offenders. Speaking alongside her campaign manager Jordan Bardella, she advocated for a "national priority" and warned against foreign military interventions, particularly in wars that are not France's. Bardella, who introduced Le Pen on stage, accused the government of abandoning its responsibilities and claimed his party is the only option to restore order.

The rally, attended by around 8,500 supporters, was the first of many planned events as Le Pen gears up for the 2027 presidential election.