Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally party, announced Tuesday, July 2, that she will run for the presidency in 2027 [1].

This candidacy marks a significant political turn as Le Pen seeks the highest office in France while under judicial supervision. The move tests the limits of French electoral law and the public's tolerance for a candidate with a criminal record.

The announcement follows a ruling by a Paris appeals court regarding a conviction for the misuse of public funds [3]. While the court found Le Pen guilty of fraud, the ruling reduced her previous ban on holding public office [3]. This reduction opens the legal door for her to stand as a candidate in the next election cycle [3].

As a condition of this legal standing, the court requires Le Pen to wear an electronic ankle monitor during her campaign [3]. The device serves as a form of judicial oversight while she travels and meets voters across the country [3].

Le Pen said the court's decision allows her to continue her political project. She said she has the ability to withstand the pressures of the legal process and the upcoming campaign.

"My skin's quite tough," Le Pen said. "If someone tries to kill me, they'd better have a well‑sharpened blade. I think I have a certain resilience" [1].

Despite the requirement of the ankle tag, Le Pen remains committed to her bid for the presidency [2]. "I will run for the presidency in 2027," she said [2].

The National Rally has consistently pushed a platform of nationalist policies, and strict immigration controls. This legal battle represents one of several judicial challenges the party leader has faced during her career in French politics.

“"I will run for the presidency in 2027."”

The ruling creates a rare precedent where a major presidential candidate may campaign under active electronic surveillance. By reducing the ban on holding office, the Paris appeals court has effectively shifted the decision of Le Pen's eligibility from the judiciary to the voters, making her legal status a central theme of the 2027 election.