Live: RN insists its proposed veil ban does not target a religious symbol as criticism mounts

The National Rally’s 2027 presidential campaign has already run into trouble, with a proposal to ban the veil drawing criticism from several directions and exposing differences within the party.

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combat Islamist ideology

Jean-Philippe Tanguy, the RN lawmaker for the Somme and Marine Le Pen’s right-hand man in the National Assembly, set off the controversy during an appearance on the “BFMTV-Le Figaro Grand Oral.” He said the party wanted to “combat Islamist ideology” and penalize veil-wearing “in solidarity with all the women around the world who are forced to wear it and who die for this freedom.”

In practical terms, Tanguy said women wearing the veil where it was prohibited would face a fine. He also argued that the proposal was supported by “60% to 70% of French women and men.”

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in solidarity with all the women around the world who are forced to wear it and who die for this freedom

The proposal has been criticized as an attack on religious freedom and questioned on practical grounds, particularly over how police would enforce it. The dispute has added to a difficult political return for the RN as Marine Le Pen prepares for the presidential election expected in 2027. The party’s recent confusion and competing “sensitivities” have renewed questions about the strength of the Le Pen-Bardella partnership.

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60% to 70% of French women and men