Marine Le Pen, the far-right French politician, faces a high-stakes appeal trial that began Tuesday in Paris against a previous ruling that banned her from holding public office for five years. The appeal, heard at the Paris Court of Appeal, could determine whether Le Pen is eligible to run in the 2027 presidential election.

Le Pen, 57, was found guilty last year of embezzling European Union funds. The original case centered on accusations that Le Pen, along with more than 20 other senior figures from her National Rally (RN) party, misused EU funds by hiring assistants who worked on RN party matters instead of performing duties for the European Parliament, which was their designated employer. Judge Bénédicte de Perthuis presided over the initial case.

The trial is scheduled to last until February 12, but a ruling is not expected before the summer. This timeline places the verdict well in advance of next year's presidential vote, allowing time for further legal challenges if necessary.

Jordan Bardella, the president of the National Rally party, voiced strong concerns about the implications of barring Le Pen from running for president. He stated that such a ban would be "deeply worrying for democracy." Bardella also clarified that he would not be a candidate for president next year, instead aiming for the position of prime minister.

Le Pen maintains her innocence, asserting that she has not committed "the slightest irregularity." The outcome of the appeal will significantly impact the future of the National Rally party and the broader political landscape in France.