Le Pen was convicted numerous times of antisemitism, discrimination and inciting racial violence. But the nativist ideas that propelled his popularity remain ascendant in today's France and beyond.

France began voting in a presidential runoff election Sunday in a race between between incumbent Emmanuel Macron and far-right politician Marine Le Pen.

French President Emmanuel Macron tore into his far-right challenger Marine Le Pen in a debate for her ties to Russia and wanting to strip Muslim women of their right to cover their heads in public.

As President Emmanuel Macron and challenger Marine Le Pen campaign for the April 24 run-off election, analysts say the vote results will have deep consequences in France and on the world stage.

Polls opened across France Sunday for the first round of the country's election, where up to 48 million voters will be choosing between 12 candidates, including President Emmanuel Macron.