RN Leads Election Preparations Amid Political Turmoil in France

As France faces mounting political uncertainty over the potential dissolution of the National Assembly, political parties are actively preparing for the possibility of early legislative elections. The Rassemblement National (RN) is notably ahead in these preparations, with nine out of ten candidate nominations finalized in Isère, and the last expected imminently. Thierry Perez, an RN leader, highlighted the party’s comprehensive candidate preparation measures, including media training and financial management, to avoid mistakes made in past elections.

Jordan Bardella, RN president, has publicly called for the National Assembly’s dissolution, emphasizing the necessity for the French electorate to choose a clear majority. In interviews on BFMTV and RMC, Bardella repeated his “solemn” request multiple times and expressed his readiness to run in the likely forthcoming elections. He also indicated openness to forming a majority with right-wing political forces if needed.

On the other hand, the left-wing parties remain mired in uncertainty. The Socialist Party and France Insoumise are struggling to forge an alliance, with internal coordination proving difficult. Although the Socialists have initiated candidate selection, a unified leftist strategy is yet to be established. Meanwhile, right and center parties are contemplating non-aggression pacts to avoid splitting votes and suffering electoral setbacks, unlike in previous elections where the presidential majority fielded candidates in 80% of constituencies.

The ongoing negotiations for government formation, led by Sébastien Lecornu, are under great skepticism as parties doubt an agreement will soon be reached. Lecornu is expected to report on the progress to President Macron imminently. In this context, the RN is positioning itself as the best prepared to contest early elections, while the broader political landscape appears fragmented and uncertain.