PARIS – Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of France’s far-right National Front (now National Rally), has passed away at the age of 96. His death was confirmed by National Rally, the party now led by his daughter, Marine Le Pen.
Known for his charisma, populist rhetoric, and controversial views, Le Pen reshaped French politics over his 40-year career. He championed issues like immigration control and job security, resonating with disenchanted working-class voters and foreshadowing political shifts seen in leaders like Donald Trump.
Le Pen’s political zenith came in 2002, when he shocked the world by advancing to the presidential election run-off. However, he was soundly defeated by Jacques Chirac as voters overwhelmingly rejected the far-right.
A staunch nationalist and critic of the European Union, Le Pen was notorious for his provocative statements, including dismissing Nazi gas chambers as a “detail” of World War II history—a remark that led to a conviction for contesting war crimes.
His legacy remains polarizing, with some crediting him for influencing political discourse in France, while others condemn his divisive and inflammatory rhetoric. National Rally leader Jordan Bardella confirmed Le Pen’s passing on the platform X, marking the end of an era in French far-right politics.