France votes in municipal elections seen as test for 2027 presidency

France has begun voting in the first round of municipal elections across 35,000 villages, towns and cities. The two-round ballot, held on consecutive Sundays, focuses on local issues such as security, housing and refuse collection, but will also be watched for what it reveals about party strategy and alliances ahead of the 2027 presidential race.

Emmanuel Macron’s two terms end next year and there is uncertainty about presidential candidates. Parliament remains divided with no absolute majority, split between the left, the far right and centrists. Midday turnout on Sunday was 19.37%, only slightly higher than at the same point in 2020.

The far-right National Rally (RN) remains a leading contender nationally but has struggled at local level; it hopes to hold Perpignan (population 121,000) and target cities such as Toulon and Nîmes.

France, Perpignan, Toulon, Nîmes

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