Voters across mainland France are casting ballots in the first round of an exceptional parliamentary election, which could see nationalist, far-right parties gain control of the government for the first time since the Nazi era. The election, concluding on July 7, could significantly impact European financial markets, Western support for Ukraine, and the management of France’s nuclear arsenal and global military force. Frustration with inflation, economic concerns, and President Emmanuel Macron’s perceived arrogance has fueled support for Marine Le Pen’s anti-immigration National Rally party, which has dominated pre-election polls. A new left-wing coalition, the New Popular Front, also challenges Macron’s pro-business centrist alliance.
Turnout at midday in the first round stood at 25.9%, higher than the 18.43% turnout during the 2022 legislative elections. Macron voted in Paris with his wife, Brigitte Macron, while Le Pen cast her ballot in her party’s northern stronghold. The vote takes place during the first week of summer vacation, with absentee ballot requests significantly higher than in 2022. Voters expressed concerns over immigration, inflation, and the rising cost of living, reflecting the country’s division between far-right and far-left blocs and the unpopularity of the centrist president. Some voters emphasized the importance of participating amidst rising hate speech and frustration with the current government.
Macron called the early election after his party’s poor performance in the European Parliament election in June, hoping to galvanize moderate forces to prevent the far-right from gaining power. However, pre-election polls suggest the National Rally could win a parliamentary majority, potentially leading to cohabitation with 28-year-old National Rally President Jordan Bardella as prime minister. A win for the National Rally would weaken Macron domestically and internationally. Bardella has stated he would halt the supply of long-range weapons to Ukraine and questioned the right to citizenship for people born in France, raising concerns about human rights and democratic ideals. Meanwhile, public spending promises by the National Rally and the left-wing coalition have worried markets and highlighted concerns about France’s heavy debt, criticized by EU watchdogs.
