French Far-Right Party Makes Historic Gains in Parliamentary Elections

France witnessed a political earthquake as the far-right National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, achieved unprecedented success in the first round of snap parliamentary elections. The party secured about 34% of the national vote according to exit polls, signaling a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.

The leftwing New Popular Front, spearheaded by Clémentine Autain, emerged as the second major force in the elections, while President Emmanuel Macron‘s centrist alliance faced a severe setback, trailing behind in third place.

With aspirations of attaining an absolute majority in the 577-seat parliament, the National Rally’s surge has stirred concerns and prompted calls for tactical voting to block their rise to power.

The high voter turnout, the highest in almost 40 years, underscored the polarized nature of French politics, with Macron warning of potential ‘civil war’ if either the far right or hard left were to come to power.

Traditional alliances and political strategies are being reevaluated as Macron and his rivals navigate the complex aftermath of the initial election results.