At just 28 years old, Jordan Bardella has been instrumental in propelling France's far-right National Rally to unprecedented political prominence. Now, he stands on the brink of becoming the

country's youngest prime minister.

Following Marine Le Pen's National Rally securing a commanding lead in the initial round of snap legislative elections on June 30, Bardella has been fervently rallying supporters to secure an absolute majority in the decisive round on Sunday. This would pave the way for the anti-immigration, nationalist party to assume government leadership, with Bardella at its helm.

When Bardella took over the reins of France's leading far-right party from Marine Le Pen in 2022, he marked a symbolic shift. He became the first leader outside the Le Pen family since its inception half a century ago.

"This is the creation of Marine Le Pen," noted Cécile Alduy, a Stanford University professor specializing in French politics and literature. "He has been groomed by her and remains fiercely loyal."

Born in Seine-Saint-Denis to parents of Italian descent with Algerian roots on his father's side, Bardella's upbringing contrasts with the party's traditional base. His background, growing up in a disadvantaged area plagued by poverty and drugs, has been emphasized to differentiate him from the political establishment.

Bardella's rapid ascent within the National Rally began at age 17 when he joined the party. He swiftly climbed the ranks, serving as spokesperson, president of its youth wing, and eventually becoming the second-youngest member of the European Parliament in history in 2019.

With a strong presence on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Bardella has cultivated a following among young voters. His slick campaign materials and direct engagement resonate, despite his party's controversial stance on immigration and relations with France's Muslim community.

As Bardella prepares for potential leadership, he has softened some of the National Rally's more contentious policies while emphasizing law and order, tighter immigration controls, and economic protectionism. His proposals include restricting social benefits to French citizens and barring dual citizens from certain state positions.

Internationally, Bardella has positioned himself against allegations of pro-Russian sympathies within the National Rally, describing Russia as a multifaceted threat to France and Europe. He advocates caution in dealings with Moscow and supports continued arms deliveries to Ukraine but opposes direct military intervention.

Bardella's ascent reflects a growing disenchantment among voters with traditional political elites and a desire for change. His clean slate and populist appeal present a formidable challenge to France's established political order, promising a shift toward nationalist policies if elected prime minister. Photo by Raphael ATTAL @BootEXE, Wikimedia commons.