French voters are preparing to cast their ballots on Sunday to choose the 577 members of the National Assembly, signaling a potential shift in the country’s political landscape. The decision to hold elections follows a significant defeat for French President Emmanuel Macron’s party at the European Parliament elections on June 9, prompting the call for a snap vote. Current polls indicate a strong lead for Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally (RN) party, with 36 percent of the vote, followed by the left-wing bloc Nouveau Front Populaire (NFP) at 28.5 percent, and Macron’s centrist alliance – Ensemble – at 21 percent. If these trends continue, Macron may face the challenge of cohabitating with a prime minister from an opposing party.
On election day, voting will begin at 06:00 GMT and is expected to conclude at 16:00 GMT in most areas, with extended hours in major cities like Paris until 18:00 GMT. To secure a majority in the National Assembly, a party or alliance must garner at least 289 seats. Macron’s current coalition fell short of this mark, limiting its ability to push through legislative measures. The election results will be announced on Sunday, July 30, provided that voter turnout is at least 25 percent and candidates secure an absolute majority of votes cast.
These elections mark a departure from tradition, as they come after the presidential vote and indicate a shift in public sentiment. This shift may result in a period of cohabitation, with a president from one party ruling alongside a government elected in opposition to the president himself. Macron’s leadership has faced criticism for being aloof and despotic, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and a desire for change among voters.
In contrast, Marine Le Pen has worked to reshape the image of the National Rally party through a strategy of de-demonisation, broadening its appeal and distancing it from past controversies. The party’s candidate for prime minister, Jordan Bardella, represents a new generation of leadership, appealing to a diverse base of supporters. The election outcome could have significant implications for domestic policies, particularly regarding immigration and social welfare.
Overall, the French elections represent a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape, with potential ramifications for both domestic and foreign policy decisions.