Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally (RN) party has emerged as the frontrunner in the first round of France’s parliamentary elections, according to initial projections released on Sunday. The RN bloc secured 34% of the vote, placing them ahead of the left-wing alliance with 28.1% and President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist coalition, which trailed in third with 20.3%.
Projections indicate that the RN could secure between 230 and 280 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly after the second round of voting next Sunday. However, this falls short of the 289 seats required for an absolute majority. The left-wing alliance, known as the New Popular Front (NFP), is projected to secure between 125 and 165 seats, while Macron’s Ensemble and its allies are expected to have between 70 and 100 seats.
Despite the RN's strong showing, the party may face challenges in governing without a majority. Marine Le Pen, the party leader, emphasized the importance of the upcoming second round of voting, stating that 'Nothing has been won – and the second round will be decisive.'
The RN's election party in Henin Beaumont erupted in celebration upon hearing the initial results. Le Pen addressed her supporters, acknowledging the party's success in the first round but highlighting the significance of the next round.
With the potential for the RN to fall short of an absolute majority, France could be headed towards a hung parliament, leading to further political uncertainty. The RN's candidate for prime minister, Jordan Bardella, has expressed reluctance to govern a minority government, indicating the need for political negotiations and alliances.
Following Macron's unexpected decision to call a snap election, voter turnout was notably high at 65.5%, the highest in a first round of parliamentary elections since 1997. The outcome of the second round of voting will determine the composition of the National Assembly and the future direction of French politics.
