Jordan Bardella has topped a new French opinion poll, with 47% of respondents saying they want him to play an important role in the country’s political life in the months and years ahead.
The survey, carried out by Verian for Le Figaro between May 31 and June 2, gave Bardella his highest score since the polling series began. The president of the Rassemblement National gained six points compared to the previous month.
Marine Le Pen, the party’s most prominent figure, also gained support, rising four points to 40%. The poll found that 40% of respondents wanted her to play an important role in French politics in the future.
Several other politicians associated with the national Right also recorded gains. Marion Maréchal rose to 27%, Éric Ciotti reached 24%, and Robert Ménard climbed to 20%.
The poll was conducted immediately after riots broke out in several French cities following Paris Saint-Germain’s victory in the UEFA Champions League final.
For several days, television broadcasts and social media were dominated by images of looting, clashes with police, fires, and damage to property.
The government’s response also drew attention. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau’s description of the disorder as isolated incidents was met with criticism from some members of the public.
The latest figures continue a trend seen in recent years. Issues such as crime, immigration, and public order have often coincided with growing support for the Rassemblement National.
France has experienced a series of major events linked to those issues over the past decade, including the terrorist attacks of 2015, large-scale immigration, the nationwide riots of 2023 following the death of Nahel Merzouk, and repeated outbreaks of violence in some urban areas.
For many years, rival parties have often worked together during elections to prevent the Rassemblement National from winning power. However, that approach appears to be weakening as France’s political landscape becomes increasingly fragmented.
The poll does not measure voting intentions for the next presidential election, which is less than a year away. However, it suggests that Bardella and his party continue to benefit from public concern about security and public order.