Far-right French leader cancels CPAC speech over Bannon 'wave' he says alludes to 'Nazi ideology'

The leader of France's far-right National Rally party on Friday canceled his speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference, citing Steve Bannon's "wave" at the forum, which the foreign leader claimed alluded to a Nazi salute.

Bannon made the gesture on Thursday, which marks the second time that an ally of President Donald Trump has been accused of making a Nazi salute. Elon Musk was accused of making the gesture on Trump's Inauguration Day.

France's Jordan Bardella said he had been scheduled to speak about the links between the United States and France, and "the recent electoral dynamic of patriot parties in Europe," before he canceled the appearance.

“Yesterday, while I was not present in the room, one of the speakers out of provocation allowed himself a gesture alluding to Nazi ideology," Bardella told France's Agence France-Presse. "I therefore took the immediate decision to cancel my speech that had been scheduled this afternoon."

Bannon has denied the comparison to the Nazi salute, stating that the gesture was a "wave," and that it was how he ended most of his speeches. He also blasted Bardella over his decision, stating the man was not fit to lead France.

“He’s a little boy, not a man, and only men or women of strength can lead France,” he said.

The conservative convention in Maryland began Thursday and will run through the weekend. The convention is expected to feature speeches from many heavy hitters, including Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.