French Far-Right Leader Bardella Denies Antisemitism Claims, Files Defamation Suit

In France in late September 2026, far-right leader Jordan Bardella denied antisemitic remarks attributed to him in an investigation by the news outlet Mediapart. Bardella filed a defamation lawsuit over the exposé, and his party, the National Rally (RN), described the accusations as part of a "total war" aimed at derailing his presidential ambitions. RN figure Tanguy also commented on the matter.

Separately, a poll showed President Emmanuel Macron's popularity at a record low, against the backdrop of a fuel crisis. Another survey found that 75% of French people believe the Socialist Party should permanently break its alliances with La France insoumise.