French presidential race begins as polls favor far-right candidate
France is set to elect a new president in April and May 2027, with campaigning already underway. Recent opinion polls suggest Marine Le Pen of the National Rally is the frontrunner. Numerous potential candidates have entered the race, though it remains unclear if any can defeat the far right.
The first round of voting is scheduled for April 18, 2027, with a runoff on May 2. President Emmanuel Macron will not be on the ballot, and Marine Le Pen of the National Rally currently leads polling. Numerous contenders have declared their candidacies, though no clear challenger has emerged to overtake her. NPR's Eleanor Beardsley discusses whether any candidate can realistically block a far-right victory.
Separately, France has announced a €1 billion relief package for farmers after the hottest summer on record, but many argue it falls short of covering losses from wildfires and prolonged drought.
This election could reshape France's political landscape, with a far-right presidency potentially altering immigration, EU relations, and domestic policy. Voters across the political spectrum may face a stark choice between Le Pen and a fragmented opposition. The outcome could also influence neighboring European elections, as other far-right parties watch for momentum. Economic pressures from climate damage may further shift voter priorities, though the long campaign leaves room for unexpected developments.