Controversial Remarks by RN Candidate Laurent Gnaedig
Laurent Gnaedig, the RN candidate in the 1st constituency of Haut-Rhin, has sparked controversy with his remarks during a debate on BFM Alsace. Gnaedig referenced a statement by Jean-Marie Le Pen, co-founder of the National Front, who had infamously described the gas chambers as 'a point of detail in the history' of World War II. Gnaedig claimed that these remarks were 'not an anti-Semitic remark,' further stating that Le Pen 'inspired' him in his youth.
During the debate, ecologist Sandra Regol challenged Gnaedig on whether this 'detail of the story' also inspired him, referring to Le Pen's comments made in 1987 on RTL. Gnaedig responded by calling it 'a serious error in communication and understanding,' yet maintained that it wasn't an anti-Semitic remark. He later issued an apology in a press release, acknowledging that his statements might have hurt some people and expressing regret.
National Rally's Struggles with Controversy and Internal Summons
The leadership of the National Rally (RN) has summoned Gnaedig before the National Conflict Commission following his controversial remarks. In a press release, Gnaedig stated that he would comply with the party's decision and regretted his statements. This is not the first time the party has had to address such issues. RN candidate Ludivine Daoudi was asked to withdraw after a photo showing her with a Luftwaffe NCO cap featuring a swastika emerged. Another candidate, Annie Bell, was convicted of armed hostage-taking in 1995.
Marine Le Pen, the party's leader, has been vocal about the RN's 'intransigence' towards racism and anti-Semitism. Despite efforts to 'demonize' and normalize the party, controversies continue to surface, challenging its public image.
Russian Ministry's Support Adds to RN's Woes
Adding to the RN's challenges, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently expressed support for the party. Andreï Nastasine, deputy director of the ministry's information and press department, posted a tweet praising the RN's stance on 'national sovereignty' and its break from the 'diktat of Washington and Brussels.' The tweet included a photo of Marine Le Pen smiling on stage, which appeared to be clear support from Moscow.
Marine Le Pen, appearing on TF1's '8 p.m.,' distanced herself from the Russian endorsement, stating that she 'does not feel responsible for Russian provocations against France and Emmanuel Macron.' She criticized the tweet as a potential form of 'interference' and reiterated her support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war. She also drew a red line, stating that no French soldiers would be sent to the front if her party gained an absolute majority.
- Jean-Marie Le Pen, a historical figure of the French far right, co-founded the National Front in 1972 with two Waffen SS members. His controversial remarks about the gas chambers have led to multiple condemnations over the years.
- The National Rally has faced several controversies involving its candidates. Ludivine Daoudi was asked to withdraw after a photo of her wearing a Luftwaffe NCO cap with a swastika surfaced. Annie Bell, another candidate, was convicted of armed hostage-taking in 1995.
- Marine Le Pen has been working on a strategy to 'demonize' and normalize the party, distancing it from its controversial past. However, the party continues to face challenges in maintaining a clean image.
- The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs' recent tweet supporting the RN has added to the party's woes. Marine Le Pen has distanced herself from this endorsement, criticizing it as a form of interference and reiterating her support for Ukraine.
