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Rassemblement National

Le Rassemblement national (RN) est un parti politique français fondé en 1972 sous le nom de Front national et renommé en 2018.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Rassemblement National (RN) is a French political party founded in 1972 as the Front National and renamed in 2018. It is generally described as a far-right, nationalist, conservative and eurosceptic party. Since 2021, its leadership has been associated with Jordan Bardella, while Marine Le Pen remains a central figure of the party.

History

The party was created in 1972 under the name Front National. It adopted the name Rassemblement National in 2018 as part of a political rebranding strategy.

Political orientation

The RN is described in consulted sources as a far-right party, with recurring themes including nationalism, protectionism, euroscepticism and opposition to immigration. Its positions are generally characterised as nationalist, conservative, anti-immigration and eurosceptic.

Leadership and public figures

Jean-Marie Le Pen led the party for several decades, then Marine Le Pen became its main public figure. Jordan Bardella is presented as the current leader according to the provided results.

Electoral strength in France

The RN has strengthened its parliamentary presence over recent legislative elections. According to the provided results, it became the largest group in the National Assembly in 2024.

Key facts

  • Founded in 1972 as the Front National.
  • Renamed Rassemblement National in 2018.
  • Described as a far-right, nationalist, conservative and eurosceptic party.
  • Jordan Bardella has been the leader since 2021.
  • Became the largest parliamentary group in the National Assembly in 2024.
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Canadian context

Le RN concerne les lecteurs canadiens surtout comme exemple de parti majeur dans la politique française et des débats européens sur l’immigration, l’identité nationale et l’euroscepticisme.

Frequently asked questions

Has the Rassemblement National always had this name?
No. It was called the Front National until 2018.
When was the party founded?
On 5 October 1972.
What is its political orientation?
It is generally described as a far-right, nationalist, conservative and eurosceptic party.
Who leads the RN?
The provided results indicate Jordan Bardella as leader since 2021.
Who are its most well-known figures?
Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella are the most visible public figures of the party in the consulted sources.

References

  1. Wikipédia — https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rassemblement_national
    Supports: Nom actuel, ancien nom, fondation, présidences et orientation générale du parti.
  2. Wikipédia — https://fr.wikpedia.org/wiki/Rassemblement_national
    Supports: Historique du parti, changement de nom et description politique.
  3. Assemblée nationale — https://www2.assemblee-nationale.fr/17/les-groupes-politiques/rassemblement-national
    Supports: Reconnaissance du groupe politique Rassemblement national à l’Assemblée nationale.
  4. La Croix — https://www.la-croix.com/France/Politique/Rassemblement-national
    Supports: Changement de nom en 2018 et contexte politique du parti.