The political shift of Rassemblement National towards mainstream agendas raises questions about the authenticity of its original values and voter implications.
The contentious legal charges against Marine Le Pen highlight the troubling use of lawfare in politics, blurring the lines between justice and political motivation.
Deep dives
The Shift in Political Posture
The political posture of Rassemblement National has become more aligned with mainstream agendas in recent years, particularly focusing on issues like balanced budgets and Atlanticism. This shift indicates a departure from more radical positions, which some party members, like Warren, have continued to support. The evolution highlights the party's effort to gain wider acceptance and legitimacy within the political landscape. This transformation raises questions about the authenticity of their original values and the implications for their voter base.
Authority and the Catholic Church's Role
Pope Francis's tenure has sparked debates about the left's evolving relationship with the Catholic Church and its authority, as many on the left now view him as a progressive figure. His critiques of neoliberalism and advocacy for the marginalized resonate particularly with those seeking a moral framework in contemporary politics. Yet, critics question whether a church figure should hold such authority, especially given the historical failures of the church during critical periods, like the Argentinian dictatorship. This dynamic reflects broader cultural shifts, where traditional anti-clerical sentiments have given way to a newfound embrace of institutional authority.
Lawfare as a Political Tool
The recent ban on Marine Le Pen underscores the contentious use of lawfare in global politics, where judicial processes are used to achieve political ends. Charges against her for misuse of public funds reveal a complicated political landscape, as many politicians have engaged in similar practices without facing the same repercussions. These developments suggest a growing trend where legal mechanisms serve to challenge populist figures, sparking debates about fairness and the integrity of democratic institutions. While some argue that this reflects a necessary check on power, others view it as politically motivated persecution aimed at silencing dissent.
Alex and George discuss some main stories from the past month. After the death of Pope Francis, what's behind left-wing sympathy for the late Pope – and more widespread appreciation for Catholicism? Why do we want a progressive Pope, and would a reactionary one be better for us? Why is the US deporting people to Nayib Bukele's Salvadorian prisons, and what makes this so dystopian?
Then Alex calls up Jacobin's Europe editor David Broder to understand the charges against Marine Le Pen.
Is Marine Le Pen a victim of lawfare, or has she been hoist by her own petard?
What are the consequences for the Rassemblement National, and for French politics?
What has the European radical right's response been to Trump II so far?
And we respond to your questions and comments from the past month on:
Holding politicians to account on free speech
Listening to poetry
Redistribution as the obvious solution to the crisis
Clientelism and hyperpolitics
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