Municipal Election Voter Turnout at 5 PM Sees Significant Increases Across French Regions

As of 5 PM on March 16, 2026, voter turnout in the first round of the municipal elections has shown notable increases compared to previous cycles in several French regions. Haute-Loire's turnout stood at 55.29%, up from 42.79% in 2020, indicating stronger voter engagement this election cycle. Similarly, the Vosges region reported a 54.82% turnout at the same hour, a rise from 45.39% in 2020. Vendée also experienced a surge, with turnout reaching 50.90% at 5 PM compared to 40.00% in 2020. In Eure, participation increased to 43.30% at 5 PM, surpassing the 37.60% recorded at this hour during the 2020 elections, although the overall turnout for 2026 was 54.54%, up from 44.92% in 2020 but lower than 64.46% in 2014.

Polling stations remain open until 6 PM, allowing voters additional time to cast ballots. Several procedural reforms have been implemented in this election, including the abolition of panachage in communes with fewer than 1,000 inhabitants in Eure, requiring voters to select complete lists without modification to promote stability and gender parity. Of note, 575 lists were elected in the first round in Eure, with nine communes proceeding to a second round. Voters unable to attend the polls have the option to arrange proxy votes online.

These turnout increases reflect heightened civic participation in the 2026 municipal elections across these regions.