Bardella Denies Existence of Racism in France, Pledges Pro-Police Government and Lower Criminal Responsibility Age

In a television appearance on 'Face à BFM', Jordan Bardella, president of the right-wing National Rally (RN), delivered a series of firm statements on security, racism, and social justice. The remarks come as preparations begin for the 2027 presidential election, in which he is positioned as the candidate for prime minister should Marine Le Pen win the presidency.

Denial of Institutional Racism in France

Bardella categorically denied the existence of any 'racist movement of opinion' or 'institutional racism' in France, affirming that he agrees '300%' with Marine Le Pen's recent statements to US network CBS, in which she described France as the 'least racist country in the world' and asserted there is no discrimination. Responding to criticisms from French athletes such as Teddy Riner and Lilian Thuram, Bardella cited the attack in the town of Trappes that claimed the life of Bingo Boussio Wangué, noting that he had not heard a single citizen express satisfaction over such a horrific incident. He also accused left-wing and far-left figures, foremost among them Jean-Luc Mélenchon, of inciting hostility against political officials.

A Pro-Police State and Lowering Criminal Responsibility Age

On the security front, the National Rally leader declared that should his party reach the Élysée, the next government would be 'pro-police' and would provide full legal protection to police officers, gendarmes, and customs agents by establishing a 'presumption of legitimate defense' in the line of duty, while stressing zero tolerance for individual misconduct that tarnishes the uniform.

Addressing the violence that has marred some student demonstrations, Bardella called for harsher penalties and custodial measures against minors, as well as lowering the age of criminal responsibility to 16. Conversely, he expressed firm opposition to lowering the voting age to 16.

Economic Platform and Pension Reform

Turning to living conditions and purchasing power, Bardella characterized the recent increase in the minimum wage (Smic) as merely a 'band-aid on a gaping wound,' pointing out that it only affects two million French workers. In contrast, he put forward his party's vision of exempting businesses from employer contributions on net wage increases of up to 10%.

Regarding pensions, he explained that the party aims to 'reform' an increasingly unsustainable system by introducing a funded pension pillar (capitalization) and offering a new, lucrative savings instrument through a 'sovereign fund' that would enable citizens to invest and participate directly in the French economy.

Government Blueprint and Elections

Regarding the structure of an administration should the party win in 2027, Bardella stated his preference for a streamlined government consisting of just 15 ministers, comprising RN officials alongside other 'patriotic' figures. He reiterated his confidence in Marine Le Pen's innocence in the European Parliament assistants case currently before the Court of Cassation, dismissing any prospect of her being convicted or fitted with an electronic tracking bracelet ahead of the presidential race, in which recent polls show her leading voting intentions with 34% to 36%.