France's Early Elections: Macron vs. Le Pen's Rising Power
The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, faces an unprecedented political crisis as his popularity continues to decline and political opposition intensifies.
His decision to dissolve the National Assembly and call early elections has generated a strong reaction from voters and the political class.
Decline in Popularity and Voter Dissatisfaction
According to an article published by Euronews, Macron has lost the support of a large part of his electorate, including those who supported him in the first round of the 2022 presidential elections. Alain Duhamel, a political journalist and essayist, states that the decision to dissolve the National Assembly and call legislative elections on June 30 and July 7 has been seen as a betrayal by his own voters, leading to a decline in his approval rating to only 26-28%.
The Rise and Decline of Macronism
In a detailed analysis by the Financial Times, it is highlighted that Macron's political project, known as Macronism, was initially launched with optimism and aimed at rejuvenating the economy and France's international position, as well as transcending traditional political divisions. However, in the context of the current elections, Macronism is fighting for survival. Marine Le Pen and her rebranded party, the National Rally (RN), are closer than ever to taking power, and RN is projected to become the largest force in the new parliament, although it is uncertain if they will obtain an absolute majority.
Challenges of Political Cohabitation
The political situation is complicated by the prospects of cohabitation between Macron and the extreme right. Marine Le Pen has declared to The Telegram of Brest that she expects RN to obtain an absolute majority and form a government, which could include making decisions regarding defense and the armed forces, including support for Ukraine. Le Pen has suggested that the title of commander-in-chief of the armed forces is rather honorary for the president, as the prime minister controls the budget, The Guardian writes.
International and Domestic Reactions
Macron's decision to dissolve parliament has been met with criticism both domestically and internationally. While the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has expressed confidence that the next French government will continue to support Ukraine, other European leaders and political analysts have expressed concern that this move could destabilize the political situation in France and bring populist parties to power that might undermine European values, according to an article published by The Guardian.
The early elections convened by Emmanuel Macron represent a decisive moment for the political future of France. With declining popularity and increasingly strong opposition, the French president faces major challenges in maintaining control and avoiding an uncomfortable cohabitation with the extreme right. The result of these elections will be crucial not only for Macron's future, but also for the political stability of France and the European Union as a whole.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
