Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella Surge in Popularity, Break into France’s Top 10 Most Beloved Figures
Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella of the National Rally (RN) party have achieved significant recognition in France, making waves in the Journal du Dimanche’s (JDD) annual Top 50 list of favorite personalities for 2024. Bardella climbed into the top 10, with Le Pen trailing closely behind. Notably, they were the only politicians to make the cut.
Le Pen’s leap was nothing short of remarkable, soaring over 50 spots from her position in 2023—the biggest year-over-year gain of any personality. Frédéric Dabi, managing director of the Ifop polling institute that conducted the survey, described the shift as nothing less than a “seismic” change in public sentiment toward her.
“She represents a kind of anchor point for the French,” said Dabi, explaining that her image as “friendly, reassuring, and protective” now resonates more than her political positions. He added, “She has regained the presidential stature she had partially lost … in 2017.”
Bardella’s popularity has also surged, climbing 20 places compared to last year. His appeal is especially strong among younger generations, bolstered by successful campaigns in national and European elections and the buzz surrounding the release of his book last November. A promotional tour for the book further cemented his public visibility.
Topping the JDD list were singer-songwriter Jean-Jacques Goldman, actor Omar Sy, and Olympic judoka Teddy Riner. These figures, along with others at the top of the rankings, were lauded for embodying “positive values” that the French public admires. Many share a relatable and down-to-earth persona, according to the publication.
The annual survey, which has been conducted for 36 years, polled 1,000 French citizens in late December. Participants selected their 10 favorite figures from a curated list of 100 names.
Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron continues to face dwindling public support. According to a separate Odexa poll, only 25% of French citizens currently view him as a good president, while the majority—75%—express dissatisfaction with his leadership. His approval appears to have shrunk to his core electoral base.
As Le Pen and Bardella rise in prominence, the shifting public sentiment suggests a growing appetite for new political leadership in France.
