French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin condemned the threats, stating, “The threats made against the magistrates of the Paris Judicial Court are unacceptable in a democracy and worrying for the independence of the judicial authority.”
Macron Defends Judiciary While Le Pen Cries Foul
President Emmanuel Macron has walked a careful line in addressing the controversy, emphasizing three key points through government spokesperson Sophie Primas: “that the judiciary is independent; that the threats made against judges are absolutely unbearable and intolerable; the law is the same for everyone.”
Le Pen and her supporters have characterized the ruling as politically motivated, with the right-wing leader specifically accusing Judge de Perthuis of making a “political decision.” This claim has resonated with international allies, including US President Donald Trump, who described the ruling as “a very big deal.” The timing of the ruling has raised eyebrows among conservatives, coming just as Le Pen’s National Rally party has been gaining significant momentum in French politics.
Legal Battle Not Over
While the current ruling would bar Le Pen from France’s 2027 presidential election, legal experts note that the ban could be overturned if an appeals court rules in her favor before summer 2026. This timeline has created significant debate about whether courts should enforce ineligibility bans immediately or wait for the appeals process to conclude. The controversy highlights tensions between judicial independence and perceived political interference in a country already experiencing growing polarization.
