How Left-Wing and Centrist Parties in France Are Trying to Block National Rally from Winning

After the surge in support for the far-right National Rally in the first round of the ongoing parliamentary election in France, left-wing and centrist parties are now strategizing on how to block the National Rally from securing an absolute majority in the second round. The initial figures displayed by the French Interior Ministry revealed that the RN and its allies had garnered 33.1% of votes, while the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) alliance received 28% and President Macron’s centrist Together bloc secured 20%.

In response to the alarming support for the National Rally, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and other left-wing and centrist politicians are emphasizing the importance of preventing the far-right faction from dominating the National Assembly. There have been calls for unity among candidates who placed third in races against far-right candidates, in an attempt to consolidate support against the RN.

With a significant number of parliamentary seats still having three candidates in contention, there is a possibility of the formation of “Republican fronts” to challenge RN candidates who narrowly won in the first round. The outcome of the election will hinge upon the negotiations and deals made between left-wing and centrist parties to form a united front against the far right.

Despite the efforts to curb the rise of the National Rally, experts highlight that uncertainty looms over the second round of the election. Pascal Lamy points out that the upcoming races are expected to be closely contested, with three potential outcomes still in play – a far-right majority, a hung assembly, or a coalition involving the far-right faction.

Holger Schmieding underscores the likelihood of a hung parliament, where none of the major political factions can secure a majority. In such a scenario, forming a stable government would pose challenges and hinder the implementation of key policies and decisions. The complexities of the electoral landscape in France underscore the importance of strategic alliances and coordinated efforts among left-wing and centrist parties to counter the growing influence of the National Rally.