Split in the Rassemblement National: Bardella and Le Pen Disagree on Pension Reform

Paris – 12.06.2026: Within the Rassemblement National (RN), disputes are growing over the future direction of the party, triggered by differing positions on pension reform. Jordan Bardella, president of the RN and designated successor of Marine Le Pen, has publicly proposed a reform that contradicts the party’s previous stance, causing significant tensions.

Bardella advocated for the abolition of the fixed retirement age as well as the introduction of funded elements into the pension system. With this, he pursues a more economically liberal agenda, which Le Pen and her closest confidants have so far rejected. Their position continues to rely on state support and maintaining a fixed statutory retirement age, considered a traditional core component of social security.

This disagreement gains extra significance as Marine Le Pen will appear in court on July 7, 2026. The court will decide whether she will be allowed to run for president in 2027, which could have a major impact on the party’s future. Bardella had originally planned not to publicly announce fundamental changes before this decision. His premature move unsettles many party members and undermines the impression of a united leadership duo.

Le Pen supporters fear that Bardella is trying to use the current legal uncertainty for a reorientation of the RN that diverges from the populist content of his predecessor. In particular, Le Pen’s closest allies are concerned about the potential loss of the party’s popular profile, which has shaped it for years. The internal tensions echo the chaotic phases of the 2024 parliamentary elections, when the RN was already struggling with internal strains.

A lot is now at stake for the future of the Rassemblement National: Bardella’s economically liberal line offers chances to appeal to broader voter groups but risks losing the more radical core voters. The question of party loyalty and effective leadership during the transition between Le Pen’s possible departure and Bardella’s takeover becomes increasingly urgent.

The coming weeks will show whether a compromise can be found within the RN or whether internal divisions will further endanger political stability. These developments will affect not only the RN itself but also the political landscape of France—especially regarding the 2027 presidential elections, which could reorganize the party structure.

The Rassemblement National is thus in a decisive phase of change, setting the course for its future role in French politics. Observers expect further conflicts that will shape the profile and strategic direction of this once protest party.