In a recent interview on BFMTV, Marine Le Pen, the leader of France's National Rally (RN), asserted that her party would not withdraw its candidates in the upcoming 2026 municipal elections to block the candidates from La France Insoumise (LFI). This statement firmly rebukes the request made by Minister Aurore Bergé for the RN to step aside in order to prevent LFI's success. Le Pen emphasized the importance of maintaining trust with voters and stated that such a withdrawal would constitute a breach of the electoral mandate given to RN candidates by their constituents.

Le Pen's commitment to keeping RN candidates in the race highlights the party's strategic positioning as they navigate the complex landscape of French politics. By refusing to make concessions to LFI, Le Pen aims to reinforce the RN's electoral presence and capitalize on its voter base, which she insists could be undermined by withdrawing from the contest. This decision also reflects the broader tensions between right-wing and left-wing parties in France, further complicating the political dynamics leading up to the municipal elections.

The implications of Le Pen's statement extend beyond just the municipal elections; they signal the RN's strategy moving forward into future elections and its reluctance to collaborate with other parties, even in the face of potential losses to opposing factions. As the political climate in France evolves, the RN’s stance could have significant ramifications on the electoral strategies of both right and left, as well as the overall voter sentiment leading into 2026.