Jordan Bardella, the 28-year-old leader of the far-right National Rally (RN), is confidently preparing for governance as France approaches the legislative elections. Bardella’s campaign emphasizes a strong stance on security and immigration, promising a ‘big bang of authority’ in schools, including the implementation of uniforms and the prohibition of mobile phones. The RN, which is leading in the polls, has also proposed economic measures to reduce sales tax on energy and fuel by cutting France’s contribution to the EU budget and has formed an alliance with the Republicans to strengthen their electoral base . Bardella has criticized the economic results of Macron’s government and the left-wing alliance’s program, warning of increased immigration and economic crisis . He has also ruled out recognizing the Palestinian state, associating it with terrorism .President Emmanuel Macron, facing the rise of the far-right, has called for unity and promised to ‘act until May 2027’, regardless of the election outcome. He has campaigned against the extremes and emphasized the need for a deep change in the way of governing. The left-wing coalition, led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, is contending for power but is marred by internal disputes over Mélenchon’s desire to become Prime Minister.As France enters a decisive moment, the elections hold significant weight, with the potential to reshape the country’s political landscape and impact its role in Europe, especially amid ongoing economic uncertainties and the war in Ukraine.
Key points
- Jordan Bardella and the National Rally lead polls with a program focusing on security, immigration, and educational reforms.
- RN proposes economic measures such as reducing sales tax on energy and fuel by cutting EU budget contributions.
- President Macron vows to continue his leadership until 2027 and calls for unity against political extremes.
- Internal division within the left-wing coalition over Mélenchon’s prime ministerial ambitions.
