Four hours ago, Europe editor Katya Adler from Getty Images discussed the likelihood of France waking up to a new far-right dawn on Monday. Despite Marine Le Pen’s party, National Rally (RN), showing a strong performance, the chances of them securing a majority are possible but not probable. French centrist and leftist parties have strategically withdrawn candidates to support each other’s contenders in the decisive second round. The impact of this election will be seismic, regardless of the RN’s success. Polls indicate that the RN is expected to win more seats than any other political grouping, breaking a decades-old taboo in France. The rise of far-right parties in Europe reflects a shift in political landscapes, with parties like RN gaining more credibility and support among voters. The mainstream politicians’ adoption of anti-immigration rhetoric has inadvertently made these parties appear more acceptable and electable. The label “far right” is up for debate, as parties like RN and Brothers of Italy navigate their pasts and present policies. Despite the RN’s ambitions for a parliamentary majority, a hung parliament or coalition government of non-Le Pen parties seem more likely. This political instability could weaken President Macron’s position and leave big EU powers vulnerable in the face of global uncertainties. Marine Le Pen’s followers remain confident that their time will come, signaling a potential shift in European politics.
