Paris, France – President Emmanuel Macron has caught everyone off guard with his announcement of snap parliamentary elections in response to a significant defeat for his party in the recent European Parliament vote.

The unexpected move comes after the far-right National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, emerged victorious with 32% of the vote, more than double the votes received by Macron’s Renaissance party. Macron declared the dissolution of parliament and scheduled two rounds of voting for June 30 and July 7. This decision was made shortly after National Rally leader, Jordan Bardella, openly called for early parliamentary elections.

In a televised address from the Élysée Palace, Macron acknowledged the urgency for a clear majority and expressed his refusal to ignore the far-right’s increasing influence across Europe. With his term already lacking a parliamentary majority, Macron’s decision to call for snap elections indicates a strategic response to the shifting political landscape in France.

The upcoming elections are separate from the presidential term, meaning Macron’s position is not at immediate risk. However, the results are crucial for determining the future direction of French politics and potentially reshaping the composition of the country’s parliament.

Le Pen wasted no time in responding to Macron’s announcement, asserting her party’s readiness to take on a governing role and address key issues such as immigration. This sets the stage for a competitive electoral battle between Macron’s party and the surging National Rally.

Macron’s choice to call for snap elections presents a bold and risky strategy in the face of a resurgent far-right movement. The outcome of the upcoming elections will not only determine the balance of power in parliament but also reflect the shifting political dynamics within France.

As Macron prepares for the electoral challenge ahead, the fate of his presidency hangs in the balance, with the possibility of National Rally securing a significant victory that could reshape the political landscape in France. The upcoming parliamentary elections will serve as a critical turning point in Macron’s leadership and the future of French politics.