Le Pen leads poll ahead of presidential election this spring

 

TT-AFP

 

Published 17.30

 

French far-right politician Marine Le Pen during a speech on September 13 in Hénin-Beaumont, northern France. Photo: Jean-Francois Badias/AP/TT

French far-right figure Marine Le Pen stands a strong chance in the presidential election scheduled for April 2027. According to a new opinion poll, she would secure one-third of the vote in the first round.

While several polls in recent months have placed her in the lead, this new survey—involving 13,060 respondents—is considered particularly significant.

If the trend holds, she could face centrist politician Édouard Philippe in the runoff. However, according to the Ipsos-BVA poll published in *Le Monde*, this would only happen if his rival from the same political camp, Gabriel Attal, withdraws from the race.

If both men compete for votes—thereby splitting the centrist electorate—left-wing leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon appears likely to advance to the second round instead.

Le Pen has decided to run in the presidential election despite a high-profile conviction for the misuse of EU funds.