Far-Right Gains in EU Elections Prompt Snap Election in France: Macron's High-Risk Move
Far-right gains in the EU elections have triggered a snap parliamentary election in France, as President Emmanuel Macron decided to call for a vote following the resounding win of Marine Le Pen's National Rally (RN) party. The RN secured 31.5% of the vote compared to Macron's centrist Renaissance party's 15%, prompting Macron to make the gamble. The French people are now faced with a choice for themselves and future generations, as the country gears up for parliamentary elections on June 30 and July 7. Macron's decision, labeled as a high-risk move, comes after centrist parties retained an overall majority in the European Parliament, albeit with extreme right parties making high-profile wins across the bloc. Analysts predict a range of possible outcomes in the upcoming elections, from a recovery of Macron's centrist alliance to the nightmare scenario of the RN winning a majority, potentially leading to a Macron-Le Pen cohabitation. The election results across Europe have shown a shift in the political landscape, with far-right parties making gains in some countries and left-wing and green parties making advances in others. The European Parliament is set to face new challenges with the rise of populist parties, while mainstream pro-European parties still hold a majority. The EU's major decisions on climate, migration, enlargement, budget, and rule of law could be impacted by this shift in the political climate, with potential divisions within the European Parliament threatening European unity and capacity for compromises.
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