Aftershocks from what a political analyst described to Fox News as a “political earthquake” continue to reverberate in France this week. Prominent right-wing leader Marine Le Pen was found guilty of embezzlement by a French court, which has prohibited her from seeking office for the next five years.

Speaking to her followers on Tuesday, Le Pen claimed that “the system” had used a “nuclear bomb” to thwart her attempts to become French president.

Le Pen, along with her National Rally party, is known for their strong stances on immigration, crime, and other contentious topics. They currently hold the majority of seats in the French parliament. During her previous bid for presidency against Emmanuel Macron, she secured 11 million votes but ultimately lost. Current surveys indicated she was poised to win the presidency in the 2027 elections. However, for now, her political aspirations are hindered, though she intends to appeal the decision.

Marine Le Pen is a well-known champion of right-wing causes around the world. (Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Le Pen is a well-known champion of right-wing causes and there was reaction internationally as well.  

During a press conference in the Oval Office last night, President Donald Trump commented, “That’s a very big deal,” further remarking that the involvement of courts in political matters “…sounds like this country, it sounds very much like this country.”

Protests are being called for this weekend by the National Rally to channel what is thought to be widespread upset about Le Pen being at least temporarily yanked from the political stage.

As analyst Malard noted, “Disenfranchised is the word… we will see if there is reaction in the street.”

Or we will see if Le Pen just bides her time. Even if her appeal fails, she’ll be able to run for office again when she’s 61. Young enough, in many countries, to still go for the leadership role!