Early parliamentary elections begin in France: What would a far-right victory mean?

Reuters reported the information. 

Polling stations opened at 6:00 a.m. GMT and will close at 4:00 p.m. in small towns and 6:00 p.m. in larger ones. Exit polls and predictions about the seat distribution for the decisive second round are expected afterward. The final results will be announced on July 7.

This election could result in France's first far-right parliament since World War II, potentially leading to "dramatic changes." Le Pen and her party advocate for anti-immigration policies, Euroscepticism, and reduced military support for Ukraine.

According to pre-election forecasts, Marine Le Pen's National Union may receive 35-37% of the votes, the left alliance New Popular Front 27.5-29%, and Macron's centrist camp 20-21%.

If the National Union wins, 29-year-old Jordan Bardella, a protege of Le Pen with no significant political experience, might become the new prime minister. Macron has assured that he will remain president regardless of the election results.

Reuters notes that a National Union victory could also create uncertainty regarding France's stance on the Russian-Ukrainian war. Le Pen has previously shown pro-Russian sentiment, and while her party now claims it will support Ukraine, it has set limits, such as refusing to provide long-range missiles.

• Recently, Le Pen promised to block the deployment of French troops to Ukraine if her party wins the election.