Rassemblement National Leads the 2024 French Election
The first round of the 2024 French election has concluded, with Marine Le Pen's Rassemblement National (RN) emerging as the dominant force. The RN secured approximately 34% of the vote, positioning it as the frontrunner for the second round on July 7. This marks a significant shift in French politics, as the party has doubled its support compared to the last legislative elections.
International Reactions and Political Implications
The success of the RN has elicited varied reactions from international and national leaders. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressed optimism, citing a public desire for change. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni congratulated the RN, emphasizing the diminishing impact of attempts to marginalize right-wing voters. Conversely, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock voiced concern over the RN's anti-European stance, stressing the importance of Franco-German cooperation for Europe's future.
Strategic Moves Ahead of the Runoff
As the second round approaches, political strategies are intensifying. President Emmanuel Macron's camp, which suffered a significant setback, is calling for a 'broad, democratic, and republican alliance' to counter the RN. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced the withdrawal of around 60 government candidates to prevent splitting the anti-RN vote. Meanwhile, the left-wing New Popular Front, led by figures like Jean-Luc Mélenchon, is also strategizing to consolidate votes against the RN. The outcome of these maneuvers will be crucial in determining whether the RN can achieve an absolute majority in the National Assembly.
- The RN's success has been attributed to its strong performance in 576 out of 577 constituencies, with notable exceptions in Paris and the French Pacific region of New Caledonia. In Paris, the RN candidates were eliminated in the first round.
- The high voter turnout, nearly 70%, reflects the significant public interest in this election, marking the highest participation since 1981. This turnout could influence the dynamics of the runoff, especially in constituencies with triangular races involving three candidates.
- Macron's government camp has been relegated to third place, with around 21% of the vote. The left-wing New Popular Front secured approximately 28%, positioning itself as the main opposition bloc against the RN.
- The RN's potential ties to Russia have also been a point of contention. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov interpreted the RN's success as indicative of a pro-Russian sentiment among French voters, a claim that adds another layer of complexity to the political landscape.
