French center-right candidates face serious challenges due to increasing unrest and protests. These disturbances have intensified following widespread demonstrations that occurred on October 17, and polls suggest that Emmanuel Macron's successors may be eliminated in the first round of elections.
Impact of Unrest on the Electoral Process
Polls indicate that Marine Le Pen from the far-right and Jean-Luc Mélenchon from the far-left have managed to capitalize on this unrest. Le Pen has positioned herself as a candidate who guarantees order and law, while Mélenchon is recognized as the champion of the protests. Meanwhile, center-right candidates are still struggling to agree on a common message to respond to the crisis.
Concerns of Center-Right Candidates
Three officials supporting the center and conservative candidates have expressed concerns that recent events may seriously harm their campaigns. One of these officials stated, "We can no longer be the solution; we are just the problem." Additionally, some supporters of Édouard Philippe, one of the center-right candidates, noted that he is not prepared to confront this crisis and cannot connect with the public's emotions.
In recent days, protests have continued and are expected to persist in the coming weeks. High school students are demanding improved learning conditions, and the general public is protesting due to the cost of living crisis. These demonstrations were particularly marked by scenes of destruction and looting on October 17.
The government and center-right candidates have recently focused on criticizing Mélenchon and his party, France Unbowed, instead of concentrating on solutions. However, this strategy has not significantly impacted Mélenchon's young supporters.
Currently, Le Pen is leading the race with a double-digit margin, and Mélenchon is in the best position to secure second place. Center and conservative candidates are struggling due to their inability to agree on a single candidate to succeed Macron.
Gabriel Attal, a candidate from Macron's Renaissance party, proposed holding a "big primary of Democrats" to limit competition against the far-left and far-right. However, this proposal was quickly rejected by other rivals.
