Le Pen vows French-first policies at campaign kickoff in Hénin-Beaumont

At her first major speech of a fourth presidential bid, Marine Le Pen declared that her administration would place French citizens ahead of foreigners in public policy, a principle she called "national priority." Addressing a crowd of about 2,000 in Hénin-Beaumont, she said French people would enjoy greater rights in the country, including preferential access to social housing. Le Pen also promised to increase the overall housing stock and eliminate various environmental rules, arguing this would restore a sense of home for citizens.

Jordan Bardella, leader of the Rassemblement National, was present in the front row during the remarks. Polls suggest Le Pen leads the first round of the 2027 election, making her a formidable contender for the second round. The speech did not touch on recent internal party disputes or her ongoing legal battle over a graft conviction that she is appealing to the highest court.