Far-Right National Rally Sees High Turnout in French Parliamentary Elections

Voting in the first round of France‘s parliamentary elections is currently ongoing, with predictions suggesting the far-right National Rally could significantly increase its share of the vote.

As polling stations began to close at 8pm local time, the turnout in mainland France stood at 59.39%, a substantial rise compared to the last parliamentary elections in 2022.

The polling firm Elabe has estimated that the final turnout could reach as high as 69.5%, potentially marking one of the highest turnouts in nearly 30 years.

Estimations of the national vote share of parties at 8pm CET will provide an overview of the broad dynamic of support for each party across France.

Polls indicate that the National Rally might increase its showing to about 35%, followed by the left alliance at around 27% and Emmanuel Macron‘s centrists at 21%.

While some candidates may be elected in the first round, with a high turnout simplifying the threshold to win, most constituencies will head to a second round runoff on 7 July.

Marine Le Pen, the leader of the National Rally, aims to secure victory in her northern constituency in the initial round, alongside several outgoing MPs from her party.

The left is also hopeful of securing parliamentary seats on Sunday night, particularly in regions like Paris and its surrounding areas.

The runoff on 7 July may see multiple candidates vying for a spot, potentially leading to strategic negotiations among parties to avoid splitting votes against the far right.

The final list of candidates proceeding to the second round will be confirmed by Tuesday evening, setting the stage for a crucial phase in the French parliamentary elections.