Marine Le Pen’s Far-Right Rally Gains Unexpected Power in France

Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally unexpectedly became a key player in France’s political landscape after the country’s snap legislative elections. Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s new government’s fate now hinges on their support. With President Macron naming Barnier as Prime Minister, RN’s influence has grown significantly, creating political uncertainties.

This summer's snap legislative elections in France saw Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) finish third. However, just two months later, they hold substantial influence, backing Prime Minister Michel Barnier's new government.

Following a lengthy search, President Emmanuel Macron appointed Barnier, a former Brexit negotiator, as Prime Minister last Thursday. The decision comes after Macron's gamble on a snap election resulted in a hung parliament, leaving him reliant on opposition lawmakers, including RN, for stability.

Lucie Castets, overlooked by Macron despite her leftist alliance winning the top spot in the July vote, claims the president has created a cohabitation with RN. While RN leaders like Jordan Bardella cautiously support Barnier, they have warned they might retract it if their demands on immigration, security, and economic issues aren't met.

Attention now shifts to Barnier's cabinet appointments, with the left planning protests and question marks hanging over key positions, including the Finance Ministry. Political analysts at Eurasia Group emphasize that RN's Marine Le Pen is crucial to Barnier's survival within this politically charged environment.

(With inputs from agencies.)