Jean-Marie Le Pen, French far-right leader, dies aged 96
GuardianDEC 28 2024
French Right-Wing Leader Jean-Marie Le Pen Dies at 96
Above: Founder of France's right-wing political party National Front (FN), Jean-Marie Le Pen, honors Jeanne d'Arc, "The Maid of Orléans," during a speech on May 1, 2017, in Paris, France. Image copyright: Thierry Orban/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Jean-Marie Le Pen's legacy is marred by his racist, anti-Semitic, and xenophobic statements, most notably his description of the Holocaust as a "detail" of history. Although he's now passed, his ideas persist in his daughter's National Rally party, which, despite rebranding, still promotes anti-immigrant policies and has members known for Islamophobic rhetoric. Unfortunately, France will continue to have to fight this ideology for the foreseeable future.
Right narrative
Jean-Marie Le Pen resonated with millions by voicing concerns about immigration, cultural identity, and the out-of-touch political elite. While nothing excuses anti-Semitic remarks, his views on national preference and cultural preservation struck a chord. Ironically, the left today is tolerating similar speech from certain Muslim communities that would've gotten Le Pen in trouble. There is a dangerous double standard in French politics.
Narrative C
Le Pen was more complicated than either the establishment left or right portrayed him. His party included both Arabs and Jews, reflecting a nuanced stance on identity; he also supported Israeli security while opposing the US invasion of Iraq, showcasing a complex geopolitical view. Le Pen's deep love for France was evident in his eloquent defense of the French language, embodying a traditional, yet sophisticated, patriotism.