Macron's Strategy Amid Legislative Elections
Emmanuel Macron and his presidential camp have adopted a strategy that places the two extreme political blocks as the only reasonable alternatives in the upcoming legislative elections. This comes after a surprise dissolution that thrust the country into an unexpected and brief campaign period. The Ministry of the Interior has classified the 4,011 candidates into 24 political families, ranging from the 'extreme left' to the 'extreme right.' Notably, candidates allied with the National Rally (RN) are labeled as 'Union of the Extreme Right,' while the new Popular Front candidates are categorized under the 'Union of the Left.'
Former Prime Minister François Fillon's Take
In a recent article, former Prime Minister François Fillon criticized the extreme left, stating that it threatens national unity and should be punished at the ballot box. However, he also expressed skepticism about the extreme right's capability to improve the country. Fillon emphasized the need for a strong Republican right, lamenting that the National Rally and La France insoumise have become the main political forces in France. His comments come amid his ongoing legal troubles and a new trial ordered by the Court of Cassation.
The New Popular Front, a coalition of left-wing forces, has gained traction, recording 28% of voting intentions in the first round of legislative elections, according to an Ifop poll. This places it behind the National Rally at 33% but ahead of the presidential camp at 18%. The poll also distinguished between the two branches of the Republicans, with the historic channel obtaining 5% of voting intentions and the RN-allied candidates at 4%.
- The classification by the Ministry of the Interior has sparked debates and controversies. For instance, Philippe Poutou of the New Anti-Capitalist Party, who was previously labeled as 'extreme left,' is now part of the 'Union of the Left' due to his alignment with the new Popular Front. This reclassification has allowed candidates with controversial backgrounds, such as Aly Diouara, to escape the 'extreme' label.
- François Fillon's remarks highlight the fragmentation and challenges within the right-wing political spectrum. Despite his legal issues, Fillon continues to influence the political discourse, advocating for a robust Republican right that can offer a viable alternative to the extremes. His critique of both the extreme left and right underscores the complex political landscape ahead of the legislative elections.
- The Ifop poll results indicate a shifting voter base, with the New Popular Front gaining momentum at the expense of the National Rally. The distinction between the two branches of the Republicans reflects the internal divisions within the party, particularly regarding alliances with the National Rally. These dynamics will likely play a crucial role in the upcoming elections.
