Right-Wing Legislative Efforts Stumble Amid Parliamentary Tensions in France

Les Républicains (LR) held a parliamentary initiative day at the National Assembly on January 23, 2026, aimed at advancing their legislative priorities. However, the event was marked by sharp political divisions and disruptions, limiting the success of the right-wing proposals. Only two of LR's legislative texts were adopted, despite high expectations, leaving the party largely sidelined during what was supposed to showcase their agenda.

A key proposal championed by LR, with backing from the Interior Minister, sought to establish a "presumption of legitimate defense" for police and gendarmes regarding their use of firearms. This measure, long advocated by police unions, intended to presume that law enforcement acted legitimately when using their weapons. Nevertheless, the proposal encountered strong parliamentary obstruction predominantly from left-wing deputies, preventing its passage.

The day's debates spotlighted the broader parliamentary conflicts between right-wing factions and the opposition, including tensions between deputies from La France Insoumise (LFI) and the National Rally (RN). Such clashes underscored the persistent discord hampering legislative progress in the assembly.

In summary, the parliamentary "niche" event designed to highlight LR's priorities instead revealed their diminished influence and the intensifying partisan struggles within the National Assembly, as opposition parties successfully thwarted several right-wing initiatives.