Bardella and the Princess in Monaco: A Sarkozy-style wedding?

Jordan Bardella, the president of France's National Rally party, has again been photographed with his official partner, Princess Maria Carolina de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles. This time, the couple appeared hand-in-hand at the Monaco Grand Prix, enjoying champagne and taking selfies in the VIP stands. The images follow earlier "falsely stolen" photos of them on a romantic outing in Corsica, which graced the cover of Paris Match.

The public display of affection and association with the wealthy elite has sparked debate, particularly given the National Rally's political success built on an anti-elitist platform and a connection with "forgotten" ordinary people. Critics question the strategy of openly associating with the affluent while appealing primarily to the less privileged.

Right-wing commentator Charles Consigny described Bardella's actions as "gross" and "vulgar," suggesting a "nouveau riche" (parvenu) quality that the working classes would not appreciate. However, the article suggests that this approach might not be a losing strategy, especially as Bardella is widely expected to be a presidential candidate, potentially replacing Marine Le Pen.

The piece, published in Le Temps, frames these appearances as "necessarily strategic" and questions their alignment with the party's core messaging. It highlights the tension between Bardella's public image and the party's traditional appeal.

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I find that Prince Jordan has crude ways of making himself known. I find it vulgar, there is a parvenu side [...] The working classes will appreciate it.