Macron Calls for Mainstream Unity to Break French Political Deadlock

Three days after France's snap parliamentary elections ended in a gridlock, President Emmanuel Macron has urged mainstream parties to unite and form a stable majority in the National Assembly. Macron’s call explicitly excludes far-left and far-right factions, marking a clear line against working with the New Popular Front (NFP), which secured the most seats in the recent elections.

In an open letter to the French people published Wednesday, Macron appealed to parties with “republican values” to form a coalition capable of passing legislation. This call comes after Macron's centrist Ensemble alliance managed a strong recovery in the second round, securing 163 seats, behind the NFP's 182 seats, and ahead of the far-right National Rally (RN) with 143 seats.

I call on all political forces that recognize themselves in republican institutions, the rule of law, parliamentarianism, a European orientation, and the defense of French independence, to engage in sincere and loyal dialogue to build a solid majority, necessarily plural, for the country,” Macron wrote.

The recent elections, which Macron unexpectedly called after his party's defeat in the European elections, have left France in political limbo. The NFP, despite being the largest group in parliament, is a coalition of ideologically diverse parties, from the far-left France Unbowed to the more moderate Place Publique and Socialist parties. This diversity has resulted in the NFP lacking a unified voice, complicating the process of forming a government.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of France Unbowed and a prominent figure within the NFP, has declared his intention to govern, stating that Macron "has the duty" to ask the NFP to form a government. However, Macron and his allies have repeatedly refused to coalition with the far-left, viewing Mélenchon as extreme and unfit to govern.

The political deadlock comes at a critical time, with newly elected deputies set to take their seats on July 18. Without a clear majority, any minority government faces the risk of no-confidence votes, potentially leading to a series of unstable governments.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal's offer to resign was rejected by Macron, leaving him in a caretaker role until a new government is formed. Macron emphasized the importance of maintaining governmental responsibilities during this transitional period, particularly with the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.

“The current government will continue to exercise its responsibilities, then take care of day-to-day business in accordance with republican tradition,” Macron said, aiming to calm the situation.

As France navigates this complex political landscape, the challenge remains to form a government capable of governing effectively and reflecting the diverse voices of its electorate. Macron's call for unity and compromise among mainstream parties will be critical in determining the country's path forward.