Jordan Bardella Faces Antisemitism Claims and Political Storm 2026

Jordan Bardella, the president of France's far-right National Rally (RN), is facing a political storm after the publication of alleged antisemitic comments he made as a young party member. Bardella has vehemently denied the claims, calling them false and accusing the investigative website Mediapart of waging a "total war" against his party.

Who is Jordan Bardella?

Jordan Bardella is a prominent figure in French politics, serving as the president of the National Rally (Rassemblement National, RN) since 2022. He is a close ally of Marine Le Pen and is widely seen as her protégé. At 28, he has rapidly risen through the ranks, becoming a member of the European Parliament in 2019. His youth and polished image have been instrumental in the party's efforts to rebrand and distance itself from its controversial past.

The Allegations

Mediapart, an investigative news website, published a report alleging that Bardella made antisemitic remarks between 2013 and 2015, when he was 17 to 18 years old and a member of the then Front National (FN). The comments were allegedly made in email groups and on messaging services. One comment attributed to him reads: "The Jew has to dominate other peoples, crush them, and rob them; a Zionist is necessarily a Jew, and fundamentally so." Another allegedly states: "All the banks are Jewish." Mediapart claims to have independently authenticated these comments.

Bardella's Response

In a defiant speech to party lawmakers and senators, Bardella denied the allegations, calling them an attempt to derail his political career and the party's momentum ahead of the 2027 presidential election. "We are seeing the beginnings of a total war, an attempt to destabilise the presidential campaign," he said, receiving a standing ovation. He accused Mediapart of wanting "to kill my political career" and announced he would take legal action for defamation. Marine Le Pen, who was at his side, expressed "absolute confidence" in him.

Political Implications

The scandal comes at a critical time for the National Rally. Marine Le Pen is currently leading in the polls for the 2027 presidential election, and Bardella is seen as a key figure in the party's future. The allegations threaten to undermine the party's efforts to shed its antisemitic reputation and appeal to a broader electorate. Political opponents, including from the left and center, have called for Bardella's resignation. The affair also raises questions about the vetting of young party members and the persistence of extremist views within the RN.

Mediapart's Role

Mediapart has a history of investigative journalism, often targeting far-right figures. The website says it has authenticated the comments and stands by its reporting. Bardella's threat of legal action could lead to a prolonged legal battle, further keeping the story in the headlines. The case also highlights the ongoing tension between the far-right and the media in France.

Key Takeaways

• Jordan Bardella denies antisemitic comments allegedly made between 2013 and 2015.
• He claims Mediapart's report is a "total war" attempt to destabilize his party.
• Marine Le Pen supports Bardella, but opponents call for his resignation.
• The scandal could impact the National Rally's image ahead of the 2027 elections.

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