The United States is reportedly excluding French organizations from a grant program designed to support groups that align with American priorities in Europe, according to two sources speaking to Reuters. The decision, already shared with French authorities, stems from concerns that providing these funds could be seen as foreign interference, especially with the 2027 French presidential election approaching. The U.S. administration is aware that funding groups aligned with the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement in France could strain the strong economic relationship between the two nations. The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL), part of the U.S. Department of State, typically provides between $1 million and $3 million to organizations working on issues such as strengthening democratic resilience, protecting freedom of expression, defending human rights, and addressing challenges like migration and censorship in Europe. These funds are intended to support groups that align with American values and policies in the region. However, the U.S. is now cautious about how this funding might be perceived in France, where concerns about foreign influence in elections are growing. France is particularly sensitive to any external influence ahead of its 2027 presidential election, where the far-right National Rally party, led by Marine Le Pen, is currently leading in most polls. In July, just after the DRL announced its funding opportunities, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot posted on social media, warning that France and Europeans would not tolerate any foreign attempts to interfere in their elections. One unnamed French presidential candidate had sought $1 million in funding for projects related to anti-DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) efforts and freedom of expression, but was recently informed that French groups would not be eligible due to the concerns over foreign interference. U.S. officials are also wary of potential conflicts with a new French law aimed at strengthening sanctions against online disinformation and foreign interference in democratic processes. This law, passed quickly by the government, is now under review by the Senate. Although the August deadline for applying for DRL grants has passed, some sources suggest that affected groups may consider relocating abroad to continue receiving U.S. funding. The U.S. Department of State has not confirmed whether French groups were excluded, stating only that discussions about the program are still ongoing. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not commented on the matter.