The extreme right in France, led by the young Jordan Bardell, is in the lead in the first round of snap parliamentary elections and could potentially come to power. Initial estimates show the far-right National Gathering party and its allies leading with 34.2 to 34.5 percent of the vote, followed by the left-wing New People’s Front coalition with 28.5 to 29 percent, and President Macron’s centrist camp with 20.5 to 21.5 percent.
The future of the parliament with 577 seats remains uncertain as the National Gathering could secure a majority after the second round of elections on July 7. The political landscape in France is on edge after the sudden dissolution of parliament and the rise of the extreme right in the European Parliament elections.
If Bardell, 28, were to become prime minister, it would be the first time the extreme right takes power in France since World War II. However, he has indicated that he will only accept the role with an absolute majority. The possibility of a cohabitation government with Macron poses an unprecedented situation, while a blocked parliament is another potential outcome. Voter turnout was around 65 percent, according to initial estimates.