France's Left-Wing New Popular Front Emerges as Frontrunner in French Parliamentary Elections

2024-07-08 77

France's left-wing New Popular Front coalition is projected to win the most seats in the second round of parliamentary elections, though will fall short of an absolute majority. Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance is expected to come second, while Marine Le Pen's far-right party is projected to place third. Turnout for the second round exceeded 67%, the highest since 1997. The results have thrown up a 'hung parliament' scenario, with no single group having a majority. The vote saw a strategic alliance of left-wing and centrist parties block National Rally from gaining more seats.