Jean-Marie was kicked out of the party, it’s no longer his party.
In a sense, you’re correct. It was done for tactical reasons, but it is still his party. The infighting in the family has disgusted many old time members and supporters of JMLP. The truth is, he’s still out there, and neither MLP or baby Le Pen can win without his supporters.
These regional elections are meaningless from a governing point of view, but they will give the FN added legitimacy if they win.