Jordan Bardella, head of France's right-wing National Rally, shocked many by abruptly canceling his talk at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, D.C. The move came after Steve Bannon, a former adviser to Donald Trump, made a gesture that seemed to resemble a Nazi salute during his speech. Bardella had intended to engage in discussions on U.S.-France relations and the growth of far-right movements across Europe but chose to back out citing Bannon's act.
Bannon wrapped up his speech with the words 'fight, fight, fight,' and accompanied those with a gesture that garnered a lot of attention. Soon after, Bardella withdrew, calling the display 'provocative' and condemning it for evoking Nazi ideology. The gesture sparked immediate criticism from many quarters.
Bannon Strikes Back
In response to Bardella's withdrawal, Bannon wasted no time firing back. He unleashed a verbal attack on Bardella, dismissing him as 'a little boy, not a man,' and casting doubt on his suitability as a leader. Bannon's remarks reflect a broader tension between American conservative figures and European far-right leaders.
The fallout from this incident not only hones in on Bannon and Bardella's relationship but also showcases how CPAC's reputation has shifted in recent years. Once considered a mainstream Republican event, it has now become increasingly tied with Trump's MAGA agenda and fiery rhetoric.
Adding another layer to the story, this controversy follows closely on the heels of criticism directed at tech magnate Elon Musk. Musk also faced backlash for making a similar gesture at a Trump event a few weeks prior, sparking debates over the behavior displayed at these gatherings.
The incident ultimately brings to light the complex connections between European far-right figures and American conservative politics. Bardella’s cancellation and Bannon's incendiary comments demonstrate the growing divide and the challenges of aligning between these two factions.
