Jordan Bardella: The New Face of French Politics
At just 28 years old, Jordan Bardella, the candidate from the far-right National Rally (RN), is making waves in French politics. With an air of confidence and eloquence, Bardella has called on the French electorate to grant him an absolute majority in the National Assembly, warning that without it, effective governance would be impossible. His appeal comes amid a highly contested political landscape, where cohabitation with President Emmanuel Macron's government and other political factions is a real possibility.
Bardella's Political Journey and Vision
Bardella's rise in politics is nothing short of meteoric. Born to Italian parents in the crime-ridden suburb of Seine-Saint-Denis, he joined the National Union at 16 and quickly ascended the ranks. He became the youngest legislator in the European Parliament in 2019 and was later appointed as the party's vice president. His government program emphasizes security, immigration control, and economic reforms. Bardella has promised to re-establish minimum sentences to curb recidivism, eliminate family allowances for parents of repeat offenders, and restrict certain public positions to French citizens only.
Controversial Policies and Public Reception
Bardella's stance on immigration and national security has garnered both support and criticism. He aims to abolish the land law that grants citizenship to children born in France to foreign parents and to reinstate the crime of illegal residence. His economic policies include reducing VAT on energy and fuel, privatizing public broadcasting, and negotiating a 'rebate' with the EU. Despite his controversial policies, Bardella has gained significant traction, particularly among young voters and those disillusioned with traditional parties. His promise to lower the retirement age and reduce taxes on essential utilities has resonated with many French citizens.
- Bardella's political journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Seine-Saint-Denis, a northern suburb of Paris. Despite the area's high crime rates, he has never shied away from his background, using it as a testament to his resilience and commitment to change. His rapid rise within the National Union, from joining at 16 to becoming the youngest legislator in the European Parliament, showcases his political acumen and determination.
- His relationship with Marine Le Pen's niece, Nolwen Olivier, and his close ties with Le Pen herself, have further solidified his position within the party. Bardella's policies, particularly on immigration and national security, reflect the core values of the National Rally. His proposal to abolish the land law and restrict public positions to French citizens aims to tighten immigration control, a central theme of his campaign.
- Bardella's economic policies focus on making France a 'country of producers.' He plans to create a sovereign fund to encourage French citizens to invest in the national economy. Additionally, his promise to lower the retirement age and reduce VAT on essential utilities has found favor with many voters. However, his critics argue that his policies may further polarize French society and strain relations with the EU.
