A Mediapart survey suggests Jordan Bardella may have echoed antisemitic clichés, reigniting accusations against the National Rally, yet some Jewish voters still shift toward the far right due to security concerns.
Survey highlights past comments by Bardella
A survey conducted by Mediapart on September 28 suggested that Jordan Bardella, leader of the National Rally, may have made comments in the past that resembled antisemitic stereotypes, though Bardella denies these claims. The findings have rekindled longstanding allegations of antisemitism against the National Rally, a political party that originated from the National Front.Jewish voters shift to far right despite history
Despite these allegations, some Jewish voters in France are increasingly supporting far-right parties, driven by concerns over security and a rejection of the left-wing party La France Insoumise. This shift is notable given the historical opposition of French Jews to far-right figures, including Jean-Marie Le Pen, who faced condemnation for antisemitic remarks.National Rally gains support in Jewish communities
Data from the 2022 presidential election showed that in areas with a strong Jewish presence, such as Sarcelles and Strasbourg, support for far-right candidate Eric Zemmour increased significantly. This trend is not unique to Jewish voters but is particularly paradoxical considering the party's origins in the former National Front, which had a history of antisemitism.Jewish voters prioritize security over antisemitism fears
The National Rally's emphasis on defending individual freedom against "islamism" and its efforts to distance itself from antisemitic figures have made it more acceptable to some Jewish voters. This is partly due to rising security concerns, fueled by migration issues and terrorist attacks, which have led some to prioritize safety over fears of antisemitism.Jewish voters blame far left more for antisemitism
Studies suggest that while both far-right and far-left parties are seen as sources of antisemitism, Jewish voters perceive the far left as more responsible. A recent report by the National Consultative Commission on Human Rights indicated that 92% of Jewish voters interviewed believed La France Insoumise contributes to the rise of antisemitism, compared to 49% for the National Rally.Jewish population's size limits electoral impact
The controversy involving Jordan Bardella is unlikely to significantly affect the National Rally's support among Jewish voters, given the small size of the Jewish population in France (less than 1%), which is also declining. Even a major shift in Jewish voter preferences would have a minimal impact on the 2027 presidential election, with the broader French population likely to determine the outcome.
