France's Macron Calls for Snap Elections Following Far-Right Surge in EU Vote
Battered by a defeat in European Parliament elections, France's President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday dissolved the country's parliament and called for legislative elections later this month. Voters in France dealt a massive blow to Macron as Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally secured more than 30 percent of the vote compared to 14.5 percent for Macron's Renaissance party. Macron's decision to seek a snap election is seen as a call to French citizens to choose between a party that supports a stronger Europe or one that undermines it. Analysts suggest Macron might be gambling on giving Le Pen's party a chance to govern before the 2027 presidential election, hoping it loses popularity. If Macron's party loses, a new prime minister from the opposition, possibly from the National Rally, would need to be appointed, leading to a period of cohabitation. Cohabitation would limit Macron's influence over domestic affairs, as he would lose the power to set policies, while retaining control over defence and foreign policy. The upcoming parliamentary elections are set for June 30 and July 7, with candidates vying for 577 seats in France's National Assembly. The tumultuous political landscape in France, including the potential for cohabitation with Le Pen's party and preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, adds further intrigue to the country's future political direction.
Related Sources: