 By 2015, the FN had established itself as one of the largest political forces in France, unusually being both most popular and most controversial political party.For the 2012 presidential election, Le Pen came third in the first round, scoring 17.9% – the partys then best showing ever for the FN.For the 2017 presidential election, Le Pen came second in the first round, scoring 21.3% – the best showing ever for the FN.