Thousands Protest National Rally Congress in Orléans

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Orléans on Saturday to protest the National Rally's national congress, which serves as the launch for Marine Le Pen's 2027 presidential campaign. Organized by roughly 50 political parties, trade unions, and associations, the protest targeted the party's alleged racism, fascism, and imperialism.

High-profile figures including Saint-Denis Mayor Bally Bagayoko, Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure, and CGT chief Sophie Binet joined the demonstration. The event took place amid heightened tensions following a deadly attack in Trappes, which authorities are investigating for racist motivations.

To prevent clashes between protesters and far-right supporters, Orléans authorities deployed nearly 3,000 police officers and gendarmes equipped with armored vehicles, drones, and helicopters. Mayor Serge Grouard also implemented a nighttime curfew for children under 15. The two-day National Rally event is expected to conclude with a major rally for Le Pen and the reelection of Jordan Bardella as party leader.