Summary
In France, mayoral elections are underway, with significant attention on Paris and several major cities. Socialists aim to keep control in Paris, facing a challenge from the center-right candidate, while alliances between left-wing parties are significant across the country. The elections are important as they come before next year’s presidential elections.
Key Facts
- Mayors for France's major towns and cities are being chosen in the elections.
- In Paris, Socialist Emmanuel Grégoire leads in the polls, followed closely by center-right Rachida Dati.
- These elections are the last major vote before the presidential elections next year.
- In Toulouse, left-wing and hard-left candidates have joined forces, leading in the polls against the center-right mayor.
- Left-wing parties have formed alliances in 26 big towns and cities to counter right-wing opponents.
- There have been tensions within the left, especially concerning La France Insoumise (LFI) due to criticisms of its leader.
- These alliances aim to prevent victories by far-right candidates.
- Paris's mayoral race is considered a key battle in these elections.
