France: Protests Against Macron's Economic Reforms Erupt - Macron's push ahead: Parliament set for a new vote
France's President Emmanuel Macron bravely eases forward following his center-right party's disastrous loss in the European elections. With the re-election of the National Assembly, the liberal hopes to establish clear political associations and aims to amplify his majority in the legislative chamber. French people will be summoned to the ballot boxes on June 30th and July 7th prior to the onset of the Olympic Games. France is currently engulfed in a hectic three-week election cycle.
Macron's courageous action surprised many on Sunday evening. The triumphant rise of the right-wing Rassemblement National (RN), helmed by Marine Le Pen, was anticipated. The Eurosceptics were expected to gather between 31.5 and 32% of the votes, Macron's pro-European center-right party around 14.5 to 14.9%, followed by the Socialists with 14 to 14.2%. In the previous European election in 2019, the right-wing nationals overtook Macron's camp. While they barely led back then, they now seem to possess almost twice as many votes as Macron's center-right troops.
Macron's camp has been weakened in parliament for the past two years. Since then, there has been no absolute majority in the National Assembly. Governing has been a challenge. As opposed to Germany, where a cooperative culture predominates in parliament, there is a more oppositional culture in the French legislature.
The election result triggered pressure on Macron, notably since his government has been hobbled for two years. Members of his entourage claimed the French had endured the turbulent parliamentary situation without a clear majority. With the new elections, Macron intends to secure his majority and return to a parliamentary life that aligns with the expectations of the French. "We intend to create clarity so that we can progress," it was stated. Macron himself was not as buoyant: He could not dismiss the fact that the status quo had altered. The decision was consequential, but he trusted the French to make the most suitable decision for themselves and the future generations. Further remarks from the president are anticipated.
Conservatives spurn alliances
Sources close to the president subtly indicated an interest in collaborating with new partners, albeit it's unclear who Macron could attract to his side. The conservative Republicans bluntly denounced any prospect of cooperation with Macron on Sunday evening.
The right-wing nationalist leader Le Pen revealed her aim to achieve power within minutes of Macron's announcement. "We're prepared to govern if the French entrust us with their trust in these upcoming parliamentary elections." Over the years, Le Pen has successfully appealed to the middle class with her demonization crusade.
Macron takes a risk
The inner circle of the president also hinted at the gamble entailed in the new election. "This decision involves a measure of boldness, courage, a willingness to take risks, which has always been at the foundation of our political DNA." Embracing rather than fearing the people is essential.
In contemporary French history, the National Assembly has been dissolved five times. Macron's move represents the initial dissolution of the legislative chamber in over 25 years. The National Assembly is one of the two French parliamentary chambers. It partakes in legislation and can oust the government by voting out of confidence. Without a majority in parliament, governance in France is arduous.
In recent times, the French public's focus has been shifting to the presidential race of 2027. After two terms, Macron, who has thwarted Le Pen twice in the runoff, will no longer be eligible to run. It's unclear who the centrist factions will put forth as their candidate and who holds a chance against Le Pen. The parliamentary election will serve as a test of public opinion.
