Le Pen's Paris Rally: A Power Display

Thousands of Marine Le Pen supporters converged near Napoleon’s tomb in Paris, transforming what was initially advertised as a protest into a demonstrative display of political strength. The gathering, documented by photographer Michel Euler, increasingly resembled a campaign rally, according to observers on the scene. This event signals Le Pen’s continued ability to mobilize a significant base, particularly through appeals to national identity and historical figures – a tactic clearly on display given the location chosen for the assembly. While framed as a response to her recent legal troubles, the scale and organization suggest a deliberate effort to project momentum and solidify support ahead of potential future elections. The shift from protest to rally highlights the increasingly blurred lines between demonstration and campaign activity in contemporary French politics, and underscores Le Pen’s adeptness at leveraging public gatherings for political gain.