France doesn't fool around when it comes to election funding
probity. There is public money available to parties that demonstrate
a certain theshold of support, as well as private donations. But
Marine LePen, at long last a serious contender for the Presidency of
the Republic, was just sentenced for misappropriation of public funds.
Seems that moneys meant to pay for Parliamentary Assistants while she was
in the European Parliament ended up funding the salaries of folks working
for the political party she represents. Her stance in the E Parliament was
Eurosceptic...
Not a light sentence either: a hefty fine, four years in jail (two to be served, two at
home with electronic surveillance) and a requirement to abstain from public events for
five years, effectively barring her from running in the upcoming Presidential
election. So, in effect, something of a scandal.
The Trump Administration signalled support for her, saying the US considers that
stopping someone from participating in public life was 'concerning'.
Seen from Canada, all this seems a tad overplayed. But then Mrs LePen is on the Right.
And the mere mention of the term seems to open the door to all manner of reproach.
Her supporters may not be the wealthy, who are protected from unpleasantness
in daily life, but those who must deal with things full on. Like out of control immigration.
As for her claim that this is judicial harassement, Donald Trump came through quite
a bit of that. Maybe making him a stronger President when he ultimagtely did prevail.
He powered through it all and, I must admit, I am rooting for Mrs LePen to find a
bit of humour in the situation and find solid footing as well!!
* * *
Not an easy read, the US government annual report on trade barriers, released
yesterday. Yes, Canada is there.
USTR Releases 2025 National Trade Estimate Report | United States Trade Representative
* * *
Well, I now know where my next billion USD is going:
Hey, it's April!
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