France is looking forward to another vote for the National Assembly. President Emmanuel Macron has dissolved the parliament after losing his party to the far right in the European Parliament election. It led him to call for two snap elections.
The Far Right Triumphs
National Rally (RN), a party of extreme right won over 29% during its first lap. This resulted in demonstrations throughout France. Many people are against RN, which before now was known as the National Front.
Protestors at Paris
This Wednesday, demonstrators marched from Place de la Republique all the way to National Rally headquarters located in Paris. According to Philippe Marliere who is a political professor said that there is palpable fear among many about possibilities of an RN win.
Election Results and Responses
Macron’s Renaissance party got about 20% of the votes only. A coalition of leftist factions called New Popular Front got 28%. This group wants voters united against Marine Le Pen-led RN parties.
Personal Story
Danielle Barron who moved from America 20 years ago is feeling worried. She became a French citizen and started voting there. She fears far-right rise like what happened in America many years ago.
Left-wing Voters’ Worries
Most leftists have concerns. Theatre producer Baptiste Colin believes forming one alliance isn’t enough because far right still won in first round run off.
Turnout by Voters
The voter turnout rate was high during the first round – nearly 68% compared with 47.5% during elections held in 2022.These were just but few examples since more than seventy candidates managed outright victories while others will compete in a run-off set-up.
Uniting Call by Macron
For round two, Macron wanted a big democratic alliance but not all his supporters want to support Popular front candidate.
Importance of Strategies
Marliere also explained that the candidates must withdraw themselves from those elections, where the presence of too many splits their supporters’ votes. In this way, a vote against RN can become stronger.
The Danger of Far Right’s Victory
A young leader, Jordan Bardella could become prime minister if RN wins majority. This makes the RN more popular as Bardella managed to attract many young voters.
Local Observations
Daniel Szabo, an academician said far right is slowly gaining dominance in Brittany which does not traditionally support RN. He believes that Macron’s arrogance contributed to this rise.
Possible Impacts under RN Leadership
Bardella becoming Prime Minister might introduce such policies by himself as denial of public housing for offenders and limiting free medical treatment for illegal immigrants.
Threats to Personal Freedom
Ondine Debre who lives both in the Loire Valley and Paris is concerned about civil liberties under RN rule. She hopes left and center parties will unite to protect democratic values.
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Summary
France is at a tipping point with many people fearing what happens if far right succeeds. The pending run-offs are crucial determinants of where France goes next.