Front National (FN)

The Front National (FN), now known as Rassemblement National (RN), is a French far-right political party with a history of controversial policies and rhetoric. Founded by Jean-Marie Le Pen, the party has historically been associated with nationalist, anti-immigration, and Eurosceptic views. The FN gained notoriety when Jean-Marie Le Pen defeated Socialist Prime Minister Lionel Jospin in the first round of the 2002 presidential election, a significant upset in French politics. The party is newsworthy due to its continued presence and influence in French politics. Recently, in Toulon, RN candidate Laure Lavalette was defeated in the municipal elections by the incumbent mayor, Josée Massi, due to a 'barrage républicain' (a united front of other parties to prevent the far-right from winning). This event highlights the ongoing efforts to contain the RN's electoral success and prevent them from gaining control of local governments, reminiscent of the FN's municipal victory in 1995.