In a historic turn of events, the second and final round of France’s snap legislative elections is currently underway, with a record turnout estimated at 67.1% as of 5 PM. This significant participation reveals the high stakes of this election, which will determine the next prime minister of France and shape the country’s political landscape for years to come.
The Background
French President Emmanuel Macron dissolved parliament and called for these snap elections following a significant defeat in the European Parliament elections on June 9. The conservative-leaning, anti-illegal immigration National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, emerged victorious in the first round of the legislative elections on June 30, securing 33% of the vote. This was followed by the New Popular Front, a broad leftist coalition, with nearly 28%, and Macron’s ruling coalition trailing with 20%.
Implications of the Election
The outcome of these elections is poised to have profound implications for France, Europe, and the broader international community. A victory for the conservative-leaning National Rally could significantly shift France’s stance on critical issues, including tightening immigration controls, prioritizing national sovereignty over EU mandates, enhancing law enforcement and national security, and adopting economic protectionism. Such an outcome could also diminish Macron’s influence during his remaining three years as president.
A Flawed Electoral System?
One of the most contentious aspects of the French electoral system is its two-round structure, which many critics argue favors leftist coalitions over a clear winner. In the first round, a candidate or party must secure an absolute majority to win outright, which rarely happens. This necessitates a second round where left-leaning parties often form strategic alliances to block the leading party, particularly if it leans right, from gaining a majority.
Proponents of a single-round system, like that used in the United Kingdom, argue that it is more straightforward and democratic. Under such a system, the National Rally would have secured approximately 295 deputies after the first round, more accurately reflecting its substantial support base.
Allegations of Election Scamming
Adding to the controversy, a video has surfaced showing a left-wing French woman explaining how to invalidate an entire ballot box. She describes a method where a voter loudly declares their choice before casting their ballot, which can lead to the entire box being invalidated if done in a constituency with a high concentration of votes for a particular party. This tactic, she suggests, could be used to disenfranchise voters in areas where the National Rally is expected to perform well.
This revelation has sparked outrage and calls for greater transparency and integrity in the electoral process. It highlights the lengths to which many individuals will go to influence the outcome of the elections and raises serious questions about the fairness of the current system. As French journalist Damien Rieu points out in response to the video, “Lying, hitting, insulting, and cheating: the four weapons of the far left.”
The Road Ahead
As the voting stations close at 8 PM Paris time, initial projections and early official results will begin to trickle in. The nation waits to see if Marine Le Pen’s National Rally will secure a majority, potentially ushering in a new era of French politics. The implications of this election are far-reaching, with the potential to reshape France’s role in Europe and the world.
France stands at a crossroads. The high voter turnout reflects the electorate’s desire for change and the importance of this election. As the country awaits the final results, the debate over the electoral system and the integrity of the voting process continues to rage.
