In the first round of France’s legislative elections on June 30, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally demonstrated a significant lead.
President Macron, who called these snap elections, urged voters to reject the National Rally due to its anti-immigration stance and EU skepticism.
The National Rally, advocating for national sovereignty, secured about a third of the votes.
This surge reflects the party’s rising popularity amid growing public discontent with Macron’s administration, particularly on economic and immigration issues.
Polls indicate the National Rally leading with 34% of the national vote, followed by the New Popular Front at 28%, and Macron’s alliance at 20%.
Despite missing a majority in the first round, the National Rally could achieve it if their lead extends in the second round on July 7.
Jordan Bardella, at 28, might become the first National Rally prime minister since World War II, posing significant questions about Macron’s future power-sharing arrangements.
French voters have shown frustration with various issues, including the European Union, immigration, and national sovereignty.
Le Pen’s National Rally’s Strong Showing in French Legislative Elections
France has 49.5 million registered voters, choosing 577 National Assembly members. The turnout was 59%, up 20 points from 2022.
The first official results were expected by Sunday evening. If the National Rally wins a majority, Macron might need to appoint Bardella as prime minister in a “cohabitation” setup.
Bardella’s plans include halting arms to Ukraine and restricting dual nationality, alarming markets and raising EU concerns over France’s debt.
France, with one of the Eurozone’s highest debts, is under the EU’s Excessive Deficit Procedure enforcing strict debt limits.
This political shift spiked France’s credit default swap rates to 38 basis points last week, now adjusted to 35.
The election could redefine France’s role, showing dissatisfaction with leadership and interest in the National Rally’s changes.
This high voter turnout and polarized political landscape indicate a deepening division within the country.
The second-round results will determine the National Assembly’s makeup and France’s political direction.