Marine Le Pen, a far-right French politician, is appealing a five-year ban from public office due to a conviction for embezzling EU funds. If the ban is upheld, she cannot run in the 2027 presidential election. Her party president, Jordan Bardella, argues that barring her would threaten democracy. The appeal process will last until February 12, but a ruling is not expected until summer. Le Pen hopes to clear her name and run for president again, while various outcomes of the appeal could affect her eligibility.