National Rally's Transformation: A Closer Look
In the lead-up to the early legislative elections, the National Rally (RN) is receiving favorable assessments from unexpected quarters. Serge Klarsfeld, a prominent defender of Jewish deportees from France, recently expressed his support for RN on LCI. His son, Arno Klarsfeld, echoed these sentiments on BFM, stating that he would vote for RN in a duel against La France insoumise (LFI). Arno justified his stance by noting that Marine Le Pen has distanced herself from her father's controversial legacy and evolved the party significantly. He particularly highlighted Marine Le Pen's condemnation of Marshal Pétain's collaborationism.
Accusations Against La France Insoumise
Both Serge and Arno Klarsfeld have accused La France insoumise (LFI) of harboring anti-Semitic sentiments. Arno Klarsfeld, a Franco-Israeli jurist, specifically targeted Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of LFI, accusing the party of promoting anti-Zionism and contributing to the rise of anti-Semitic acts in France. Serge Klarsfeld supported these claims, stating that the extreme left, influenced by LFI, exhibits violent anti-Zionism and anti-Jewish tendencies.
The Evolution of the National Rally
Arno Klarsfeld, who once campaigned against RN, now believes the party has undergone a significant transformation. He describes RN as having shifted from an extreme right-wing party to a populist or popular right-wing party. Arno attributes this change to Marine Le Pen's leadership and her decision to exclude her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, from the party. He argues that RN now supports Jews and the State of Israel, contrasting sharply with LFI's stance. This shift has led both Serge and Arno Klarsfeld to support RN over LFI in the upcoming elections.
- Arno Klarsfeld, a voter for Emmanuel Macron, confirmed his support for RN over LFI in an interview with L'Express. He emphasized that RN has changed significantly from its past, especially under Marine Le Pen's leadership. Arno noted that the party's current stance is far removed from the controversial views held by Jean-Marie Le Pen in the 1990s.
- The Klarsfeld family has faced significant backlash for their support of RN, but Arno remains steadfast. He recalled the various threats and attacks his family has endured over the years, emphasizing that his father has never been afraid to voice his opinions.
- The Klarsfelds' support for RN has sparked a broader debate about the evolving political landscape in France, particularly the shifting perceptions of traditional right-wing and left-wing parties. Their stance highlights the complex interplay between historical legacies, current political dynamics, and the changing nature of party ideologies.
