1) Macron’s takeover succeeded. Whether one likes it or not, LREM is now in a position as the unique “progressive” alternative against a well-established RN/FN. The right-wing—specifically in its RPR/Bonapartist faction potentially competing with the FN—has almost disappeared, and the PS, the other name for “progressivism” in recent decades, barely exists.
2) Saving the planet replaces the quest for social justice as a structuring element of political struggle. It becomes the main focus of the youth vote. Among those aged 18-34, the first party they voted for was EELV: over 25%… while the PS garnered less than 5% of the votes.
3) No, the RN’s (National Rally) rise to power in France is not inevitable. Even though Bardella’s list hoped to benefit from six months of social unrest and was the primary beneficiary of the Yellow Vest vote (44% of voters identifying as “very close” to the GJs voted for the RN, 24 points ahead of FI in second place!), the RN is 1.5 points below its 2014 score. Stable at best.
