President of France Emmanuel Macron is facing an unprecedented challenge in early parliamentary elections, where far-right political forces have achieved a stunning success. The first round of these elections was a disaster for Macron, and his political career may be at risk of isolation.
Political landscape has changed
National Rally led by Marine Le Pen and her allies received 33% of the votes, the left coalition garnered 28%, and Macron’s camp only got 20% of the votes. However, most mandates will only be determined in the second round, scheduled for July 7.
Facing a painful choice
On this backdrop, Politico notes that Emmanuel Macron faces an extremely painful choice: either do everything possible to stop the far-right, or try to preserve the remnants of his once-dominant movement.
The article’s author emphasizes that for the 46-year-old president, these parliamentary elections have become “as much of a personal humiliation” as his rapid rise to the presidency as a novice-outsider seven years ago.
Possible consequences
If the second round of voting secures a right-wing parliamentary majority, as all forecasts suggest, France will find itself in uncharted waters, led by politicians who have made a name for themselves sympathizing with Vladimir Putin. This could lead to serious consequences such as the collapse of the European Union, war on migration, and withdrawal from NATO.
Regardless of the results of the second round, these elections have already become a crucial turning point for French politics. Macron will have to find new ways to preserve his political power and influence, to avoid complete isolation and ensure the country’s stability in these tumultuous times.
