Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally (RN) party emerged victorious in the first round of France’s parliamentary elections, securing 33.15% of the vote. The left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) coalition followed with 27.99%, while President Emmanuel Macron’s Ensemble alliance fell to third place with 20.76%.
The RN is poised to win the most seats in the National Assembly but might not achieve the 289-seat majority needed, leading to a potential hung parliament and political uncertainty. Projections estimate the RN could secure between 230 and 280 seats, the NFP between 125 and 165, and Ensemble between 70 and 100 seats.
Marine Le Pen emphasized the importance of the upcoming second round. Anti-far-right protests erupted in Paris and Lyon following the results. Macron’s decision to call a snap election came after the RN’s success in European Parliament elections. He now faces the possibility of appointing an opposition prime minister, creating a rare “cohabitation” scenario.
High voter turnout and RN’s unprecedented success signal a significant shift in French politics. Left-wing and centrist parties may unite to block the RN from power, reminiscent of past efforts to prevent the far right from gaining control.
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