The recent legislative elections in France have resulted in a crushing defeat for President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist party, casting doubt on its future. Macron’s party came in third, with the far-right National Rally almost doubling its result compared to the last legislative elections. Macron had called for snap elections in hopes of clarifying the political landscape, but his gamble has failed. Now, Macron and his allies are calling on supporters to prevent the far-right from winning in the second round of elections scheduled for July 7th. However, the effectiveness of this strategy against the far-right has weakened over the years.
Political experts believe that there is no hope for Macron’s centrist party in the short term, considering the widespread protests against the president’s handling of key domestic issues. However, there may still be a chance for Macron to salvage his party’s reputation in the long term if the far-right gains an absolute majority of seats. This could position Macron as a guarantor of the Constitution, trying to protect the French people from some of the far-right’s decisions. With an unprecedented number of seats heading for a three-candidate run-off, political bargaining is set to begin as parties strategize to defeat the far-right candidates in their constituencies.
The future of the centrist alliance is deemed to be under threat, according to political experts. The political landscape is expected to shift significantly after these snap elections, with Macron’s possible successors aiming to build something new. Macron’s former prime minister, Edouard Philippe, who heads the Horizons center-right party, has accused Macron of “killing the presidential majority.” Many candidates under the centrist alliance have even refused to use Macron’s image on their election posters, fearing it could harm their chances of being elected. The decision to dissolve the National Assembly has sparked frustration and disappointment among politicians from the presidential camp.
As the second round of legislative elections approaches, Macron and his allies are urging voters to prevent the far-right from taking office. However, the far-right’s increasing popularity poses a significant challenge to Macron’s centrist party. With parties deciding who should stand down in order to have the best chance of defeating far-right candidates in their constituencies, political maneuvering and alliances are expected to play a crucial role in the final outcome. Candidates are required to submit applications for the second round before a specified deadline, with the future of the centrist alliance hanging in the balance as the political landscape continues to evolve.
