Macron Unyielding Amidst Legislative Election Uncertainty
In a press conference held on Wednesday afternoon, French President Emmanuel Macron clarified his stance on the possibility of resignation following the upcoming snap legislative elections. He firmly reiterated his determination to remain in office, dismissing any notion of stepping down as "absurd." This assertion comes despite a poll conducted by the CSA Institute for CNEWS, Europe 1, and JDD, revealing that nearly 60% of French citizens, including 30% of Macron's own Renaissance supporters, believe he should resign in the event of an election defeat.
The French President's bold decision to dissolve the National Assembly was aimed at curbing the rise of the extreme right, represented by Marine Le Pen's National Rally (RN). Macron emphasized the importance of forming a broad democratic alliance to counter the growing influence of political extremes. His call for new elections followed a significant defeat in the European Parliament elections, where RN outperformed Macron's Renaissance party with a commanding 31.36% of the vote.
Macron's Strategy Against Populist Threat
Sources close to the Élysée Palace have suggested that Macron's strategy might involve a political gamble. By pushing for new elections, he aims either to regain a parliamentary majority or force the RN into cohabitation. The term 'cohabitation' in France refers to a scenario where the President and the parliamentary majority come from different political parties. This situation could expose the incompetence of the RN, thereby weakening its position before the 2027 presidential elections.
Currently, the Renaissance coalition holds a relative majority in the National Assembly but falls short of an absolute majority. This necessitates constant negotiations for passing legislation, a challenge highlighted by recent controversial measures like the pension reform.
Divisions Within French Politics
Internal conflicts within traditional parties further complicate the political landscape. The Republican Party, founded by Jacques Chirac, faces turmoil after party leader Eric Ciotti called for an alliance with the RN. This move has been met with severe backlash from key figures within the party, with accusations of betrayal and threats of expulsion. Marine Le Pen, on the other hand, welcomed Ciotti's proposal as a step towards dismantling long-standing political barriers.
Meanwhile, the left-wing parties in France are contemplating a unified front to counter the right. Despite historical fragmentation, representatives from the Greens, left-wing populists, socialists, and communists are in discussions to form a Popular Front, reminiscent of the anti-fascist alliance of 1934.
Amidst this political instability, Macron's refusal to resign, regardless of the electoral outcomes, adds another layer of complexity to France's already volatile political atmosphere. The upcoming elections not only hold significant implications for Macron's leadership but could also reshape the French political landscape for years to come.
- The poll conducted by CSA Institute highlights a generational divide in opinions about Macron's resignation. A notable 76% of young respondents aged 18-24 expressed a desire to see Macron step down in case of defeat. Conversely, the majority of those over the age of 65 oppose his resignation.
- Macron's critics argue that his stance on immigration is a key area where he needs to find balance. He has criticized both the far-right for undermining asylum principles and the far-left for showing excessive leniency. This central position is part of his broader strategy to appeal to moderate voters.
- Recent internal conflicts within the Republican Party reflect the broader tensions in French politics. The resignation of the party spokesman and threats to oust Eric Ciotti as party leader underscore the deep divisions within the party over alliances with the extreme right.
