France is heading to the polls on Sunday for high-stakes snap parliamentary elections that could significantly alter the nation's political trajectory.
The far-right National Rally (RN) party, led by Marine Le Pen, is set to make historic gains despite President Emmanuel Macron's efforts to prevent its rise.
Support for the anti-immigration and eurosceptic RN has surged amid ongoing challenges, including Russia's prolonged war against Ukraine and soaring energy and food prices.
President Macron's pledges to curb the far-right's momentum have seemingly fallen short as the RN gains traction among voters.
Polling stations across mainland France will open for the first round of elections at 8:00 a.m. (0600 UTC) and close at 8:00 p.m. (1800 UTC). Voters in France’s overseas territories, spanning the globe, have already cast their ballots earlier this weekend.
Approximately 49 million French citizens are eligible to vote in these elections, which will determine the composition of the 577-seat National Assembly, the lower house of parliament.
The electoral process involves two rounds, with the final shape of the new parliament becoming clear after the second round on July 7.
Current polls indicate that the RN is on course to win the largest number of seats in the National Assembly. However, it remains uncertain whether the party will secure an outright majority.
High voter turnout is anticipated, with the latest opinion polls showing the RN securing between 35 percent and 37 percent of the vote.
In contrast, the left-wing New Popular Front alliance is projected to receive 27.5-29 percent, and Macron’s centrist camp is expected to garner 20-21 percent.
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