Marine Le Pen, a prominent member of the National Rally (RN), is facing serious legal challenges as prosecutors have requested a five-year prison sentence and a €300,000 fine, along with immediate ineligibility related to a case involving European Parliament assistants.

Prosecutors have characterized the case as unprecedented, citing its organized and systematic nature, which they argue poses a significant threat to democratic principles and political transparency.

Prosecutor Louise Neyton emphasized that the prosecution stems from a lengthy judicial investigation rather than any vendetta against Le Pen, presenting evidence of embezzlement involving parliamentary assistants.

The court's president, Bénédicte de Perthuis, stated that the case will be evaluated strictly on legal grounds, focusing on whether the aides worked for the MEPs or the National Rally.

The trial is set to resume on November 20, 2024, with the defense's arguments expected to unfold over the following two weeks.

Eric Ciotti, a deputy allied with RN, has voiced concerns about the implications of the trial for democracy, arguing that electoral decisions should not be undermined by judicial interventions.

Former Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has expressed shock at the potential disqualification of Le Pen, insisting that political battles should be fought at the ballot box rather than through judicial means.

Xavier Bertrand, president of the Les Républicains party in Hauts-de-France, criticized calls to remove ineligibility laws, asserting that the law applies to everyone and no one is above it.

Despite the legal challenges, pollster Jean-Daniel Lévy noted that Le Pen's reputation remains largely intact, suggesting that the narrative of judicial persecution may resonate with her supporters.

The trial has revealed inconsistencies in testimonies from aides regarding their roles, with some providing unclear statements, while Le Pen was observed guiding them during their testimonies.

Historically, several notable French political figures have faced ineligibility, illustrating a pattern of legal repercussions across the political spectrum.

Evidence presented in court included emails discussing financial arrangements and the lack of legitimate work performed by the parliamentary assistants, who were allegedly employed to benefit the party.