The Center Did Not Hold in France
What Macron’s loss means for the Fifth Republic.
French Elections 2022
Presidential elections were held in France in April 2022. The Atlantic Sentinel endorsed the liberal incumbent, Emmanuel Macron, who defeated the far-right Marine Le Pen with 58.5 against 41.5 percent support. In parliamentary elections in June, Macron’s coalition fell from 346 to 245 seats. No party won a majority.
Takeaways from the French Legislative Elections
Macron has been weakened but remains in first place. The left has united, but it hasn’t grown.
Macron’s Party Is Up, But So Is the Left
The French president may defend his majority in parliament after all.
How Divided Government Works in France
Without a majority in the National Assembly, the president can still make foreign policy.
Two Parties May Be Better Than Three
The only thing worse than two-party polarization is permanent rule by the center.
Macron’s Next Challenge: Defending His Majority in Parliament
The president’s second term could be a lot harder than his first.
Macron Wins Second Term in France
Emmanuel Macron is the first French president in twenty years to win reelection.
Three Political Traditions Explain the French Election
Charles de Gaulle’s two-party system has broken down.
Macron Is Lesser of Evils for Mélenchon Voters
Left-wing France should give the president a second chance.
Macron Is Wrong to Back Away from Pension Reform
French pensions are too generous. The pension system is too expensive.
Macron Places First, But Le Pen Is Stronger Than Ever
Takeaways from the first presidential voting round in France.
Macron and Le Pen Win First Voting Round in France
This presidential election will be a rematch of the last.
French Presidential Election Guide
The electoral system, the candidates, the key issues and the most likely outcomes.
Five French Election Scenarios
Whoever wins the presidency, France will probably have five years of divided government.
Macron Is Succeeding. He Deserves a Second Term
The president promised to make France competitive and confident again, and he has.
