Leftist coalition wins most seats in France, far-right falls to third

A coalition of leftist parties achieved a remarkable victory in the second round of France’s parliamentary elections on Sunday by securing the most seats in the National Assembly, reversing their fortunes against Marine Le Pen’s anti-immigrant forces.

Data from the Interior Ministry confirms that no single party or bloc secured a majority in the 577-seat National Assembly, for an absolute majority one party needs to secure 289 seats. 

The New Popular Front, an alliance of five left-wing parties including socialists, greens and the far-left France Unbowed, secured 177 seats. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist bloc and allies got 148 seats, placing Marine Le Pen’s National Rally (RN) in third with 142 seats.

The results contrast with the first round of parliamentary elections last week when Le Pen’s RN secured the top spot with 33% of the vote, leaving Macron’s “Together” at 22%.

The voter turnout soared to nearly 60%—the highest in over 40 years, reflecting widespread concerns over issues like inflation and immigration. 

What happens now?
Macron, who called the snap elections hoping to reaffirm his mandate, now faces the challenge of forming a government from a diverse coalition while preparing for the 2024 Summer Olympics. He has vowed to stay in office until his term ends in 2027.

The coalition will see Macron accept some of the left’s requests.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of France Unbowed, demanded Prime Minister Gabriel Attal’s resignation and urged Macron to allow the New Popular Front to implement its campaign promises, which include lowering the retirement age to 60 and increasing public-sector wages.

The left also wants to bring back the wealth tax that Macron axed.