French far-right politician gaining trust of population: Survey

By Nur Asena Erturk

A French far-right politician is earning the trust of the population, according to a survey published Tuesday.

Research and consulting company Viavoice conducted the survey for the Liberation newspaper that showed prominent MP Marine Le Pen, who is the former president of the National Rally (RN) party, is the second favorite political figure in France with 37% of positive replies.

Le Pen has gained 10 points since November 2021 and four since June 2023, according to the survey that focused on the three-time presidential candidate.

Le Pen is second to only former Prime Minister and now Mayor of Le Havre Edouard Philippe, according to Viavoice.

But 61% of respondents think she is authoritarian and despite not being considered trustworthy for France's image abroad,53%, a total of 60% of respondents also noted she is brave.

In addition, 29% of those surveyed said that their perception of Le Pen has evolved positively in recent months, according to the results.

Le Pen lost the presidential race three times in 2012, 2017 and 2022.