Right-Wing Populists Dominate First Round of 2024 French Elections
The first round of the 2024 French elections has resulted in a significant victory for the right-wing populist party, Rassemblement National (RN), led by Marine Le Pen. According to initial projections, RN secured around 34 percent of the vote, putting them in a strong position to potentially achieve an absolute majority in the upcoming second round. This outcome marks a notable shift in the French political landscape, with RN emerging as the dominant force.
Macron's Camp and Left-Wing Alliance Struggle
President Emmanuel Macron's government camp, Renaissance, faced a challenging election, securing only around 21 percent of the vote and slipping to third place. The left-wing alliance, New Popular Front, led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, garnered approximately 28 percent. Despite their efforts, both camps are now strategizing to prevent RN from gaining an absolute majority in the second round. Macron has called for a 'broad, democratic and republican alliance' to counter the rise of right-wing populism.
High Voter Turnout and Political Instability
The voter turnout in the first round was exceptionally high at nearly 70 percent, reflecting the significant public interest in this election. Experts warn of increased political instability if the RN secures a majority, potentially leading to a permanent political crisis in France. The upcoming second round will be crucial in determining the future political direction of the country, with various parties urging their candidates to withdraw in favor of stronger contenders against RN.
- French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has announced the withdrawal of around 60 candidates from the government camp in the second round to prevent RN from winning. This move underscores the gravity of the situation and the lengths to which Macron's camp is willing to go to avoid a right-wing populist majority.
- Former President François Hollande, representing the New Popular Front, received 37.6 percent of the vote in his constituency and has called on French voters to prevent an absolute majority for RN. The left-wing alliance is also withdrawing its candidates in constituencies where they came in third place to consolidate votes against RN.
- Marine Le Pen, emboldened by the first-round results, has urged her supporters to secure an absolute majority in the next round. RN party leader Jordan Bardella has expressed his ambition to become the 'Prime Minister of all French people' if his party wins an absolute majority.
- The high voter turnout and the significant shift in political power highlight the importance of the 2024 French elections. The outcome of the second round will be pivotal in shaping the future political landscape of France.
