Laurent Wauquiez Triumphs in Haute-Loire Against RN
Laurent Wauquiez, the president of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, has been elected deputy in Haute-Loire, marking his return to the National Assembly after a seven-year hiatus. He secured 60% of the votes in the second round against RN candidate Alexandre Heuzey. This victory comes despite a strong push from the National Rally (RN) in the constituency.
Wauquiez's campaign was marked by discretion and local focus. Initially seen as a beacon for the Republicans (LR), he faced a tough battle against the RN. His narrow victory in the first round necessitated a strategic withdrawal by the environmentalist candidate Celline Gacon, who aimed to block the RN but did not endorse Wauquiez.
Marie-Caroline Le Pen Wins in Sarthe
Marie-Caroline Le Pen, older sister of Marine Le Pen, was elected deputy in the 4th constituency of Sarthe. She garnered 54.15% of the votes, defeating outgoing Insoumise MP Élise Leboucher of the New Popular Front. Despite accusations of being a 'parachuted heiress,' Le Pen's return to the National Front in 2016 and her election as a regional councilor in Île-de-France in 2021 paved her way to this victory.
The Republican front's efforts to block the RN were not enough in Sarthe. The left-wing candidate Élise Leboucher fell short despite the withdrawal of the presidential majority candidate Sylvie Casenave-Péré to consolidate anti-RN votes.
The Broader Legislative Landscape
The second round of the legislative elections has reshaped France's political landscape. The RN and its allies are projected to secure between 132 and 152 seats, far from the absolute majority of 289 seats. The New Popular Front is expected to lead with 172 to 192 seats, followed by the presidential majority with 150 to 170 seats. The Republicans are projected to secure between 57 and 67 seats.
Over 200 candidates from the left or center withdrew between the two rounds to block the RN, significantly impacting the far-right's potential seat count. This election saw high voter participation, and President Emmanuel Macron will soon appoint a new Prime Minister who can command a majority in the National Assembly.
- The political dynamics in Haute-Loire were tense, with Wauquiez's campaign focusing on local issues and maintaining a low profile. His victory was bolstered by left-wing votes, despite the lack of an official endorsement from the environmentalist candidate.
- Marie-Caroline Le Pen's victory in Sarthe highlights the persistent influence of the Le Pen family in French politics. Her ability to secure votes despite being labeled as an outsider underscores the RN's growing appeal in various regions.
- The broader legislative results indicate a fragmented National Assembly, with no single party or coalition achieving an absolute majority. This fragmentation will necessitate strategic alliances and compromises in the coming months.
- The high voter turnout reflects the electorate's engagement and the importance of these elections in shaping France's political future. The appointment of a new Prime Minister by President Macron will be a critical next step in navigating the new political landscape.
