Bardella pledges unity after election victory: aiming to be ‘Prime Minister for all French people’
The National Rally (RN) has solidified its position as France’s leading party. On Sunday, they took a commanding lead in the first round of the snap legislative elections. “French people have given a clear verdict and confirmed their clear desire for change by putting the candidates of the National Rally and its allies in the lead,” stated RN leader Jordan Bardella in his victory speech, delivered shortly after 8pm local time.
According to an Ipsos poll, RN is projected to secure around 33.2% of the national vote. This places them five points ahead of the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) alliance. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist Ensemble coalition is now 12 points behind RN. If these results hold in the second round next Sunday, RN could potentially win between 230 and 280 seats in the National Assembly. This is a substantial increase from the 89 seats they held before the dissolution of the chamber on June 9. But it still possibly shy of an absolute majority of 289 seats.
Jordan Bardella’s victory speech
In a five-minute victory speech delivered in central Paris, Bardella addressed a room full of international journalists. The absence of RN executives and supporters highlighted his prime ministerial demeanor. Bardella pledged to be “the prime minister for all the people of France.” Furthermore, he emphasized respect for opposition, openness to dialogue, and a focus on national unity.
Bardella expressed hope that the second-round campaign would proceed calmly, honestly, and with respect for democratic rules and institutions. He noted that the upcoming week was crucial for making a historic choice.
Despite his call for unity, Bardella criticized both the left and center. He asserted that Macron’s presidential coalition, heavily disapproved by voters, was no longer in a position to win. He can potentially lose up to 180 seats and retaining only 70. Bardella described the left-wing NFP as “the alliance of the worst.” He even claims their rule would lead to chaos, insurrection, and economic ruin.
Focus on Jean-Luc Mélenchon
Bardella singled out Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, accusing him and his allies of endangering the nation. Bardella alleged that the extreme left had candidates on the terrorism watchlist, plans to disarm the police, increase immigration, and repeal a law against Islamic separatism.
In contrast, Bardella portrayed RN as an “unprecedented alliance, motivated by national interest,” promising to be the “guarantor of your rights, your freedoms, and our Republican motto: liberty, equality, and fraternity.” He outlined his priorities as boosting purchasing power, restoring order and security, and taking control of migration policy.
Jordan Bardella’s recent electoral success and his commitment to representing all French people mark a significant moment for the National Rally. As the second round of elections approaches, the political landscape in France is poised for potential change, driven by Bardella’s promises and the RN’s robust performance.
