Formation and Goals of the New Popular Front
The New Popular Front (NPF) is an alliance composed of Socialists, Ecologists, Communists, and France Unbowed (LFI), formed in response to President Macron’s call for a snap parliamentary election on June 9. Historically, these parties have been critical of one another, with significant ideological and strategic differences. However, they have united to prevent the far right from gaining governmental control. The NPF has outlined a progressive agenda, which includes repealing the current government’s pension and immigration reforms, establishing a rescue agency for undocumented migrants, and simplifying the visa application process. Additionally, they aim to combat the cost of living crisis by capping prices on basic goods and increasing the minimum wage.
Election Results and Immediate Reactions
Left-wing supporters celebrated as election projections were released at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT). Contrary to expectations, the far-right National Rally, which had led after the first round a week prior, fell to third place in the second round. The National Rally is now expected to secure a maximum of 150 seats in the assembly, trailing behind the NPF on the left and President Macron’s centrist supporters. This unexpected shift indicates that the collective efforts of various parties to block the far-right from gaining power have been successful. As a result, Jordan Bardella will not be the next French prime minister. However, the question of who will assume the role remains unanswered.
Future Coalition and Leadership Prospects
The current political landscape is characterized by a divided assembly, with no single bloc holding an outright majority. This situation foreshadows a period of negotiations to form a coalition around an as-yet-undefined program. The left wing, buoyed by their strong performance, will undoubtedly demand a significant influence in the forthcoming government. Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of LFI, has called for Prime Minister Gabriel Attal to resign, asserting that the NPF is prepared to govern France. The formation of the new government and appointing the next prime minister will depend on the outcome of these complex coalition discussions, leaving the country in a state of political anticipation.
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