Local sources from France: Le Figaro, Linternaute.com.
UK coverage: The Guardian.
In a surprising turn of events, the far-right National Rally (RN) party and its allies have achieved a significant victory in the first round of parliamentary elections in France. According to the interior ministry, the RN has secured 33% of the national popular vote, marking the first time they have surpassed the 20% threshold in a parliamentary election. This outcome puts them within reach of forming the country’s first-ever far-right government.
The final results and the exact composition of the parliament remain uncertain at this stage. The RN’s chances of attaining power will depend on political negotiations and the outcome of the second round of voting scheduled for Sunday.
Le Figaro’s article, titled ‘Legislative Results: The Map of France for the National Rally,’ provides an overview of the party’s performance across different constituencies. According to Ifop’s estimation, the National Rally and its allies are projected to secure between 240 and 270 seats in the future National Assembly, with a nationwide vote share of 33.15%. While this would grant them the largest group in the Assembly, it falls short of an absolute majority, which requires 289 seats. The article highlights that the National Rally’s strongest support comes from their traditional strongholds in the north and northeast of mainland France. Notably, Marine Le Pen, the party’s leader, achieved a resounding victory in the 11th constituency of Pas-de-Calais, securing 58.04% of the votes.
Linternaute.com’s article, titled ‘Le Soir: Legislative Election Results 2024 Before 8pm?’ sheds light on the regulations surrounding the dissemination of election results in France. While French media and social networks are prohibited from publishing any results before the closing of polling stations at 8pm, foreign media outlets like Le Soir in Belgium are exempt from these restrictions. The article cautions readers to treat any early estimates with caution, as leaks and false information can circulate on social media platforms. It emphasizes that the first results of the legislative elections will be known well before 8pm, as polling institutes conduct surveys in representative polling stations across the country to establish initial estimates.
As the second round of voting approaches, the political landscape in France remains uncertain. The RN’s historic gains have positioned them as a formidable force, but the ultimate outcome will depend on the intricate dynamics of political dealmaking. The final results of the parliamentary elections will shape the future direction of France and its position on the global stage.
TheLittleTwentieth - Renowned Papers Edition, AI Infused 