Naomi O'Leary reports from Paris, where nationwide mayoral elections are being seen as a barometer for France's 2027 presidential election. Video: Naomi O'LearyParties on the hard right and left gained ground in the first round of French local elections this weekend in a contest closely watched for implications for the country’s 2027 presidential election. Photograph: Christophe Petit Tesson/EPAParis is set for a five-way run-off as a fragmented electorate rewarded multiple parties with the required 10 per cent vote to contest the second round. Nationally, centrist parties and allies of Macron had a weak showing, continuing a tendency to underperform at local elections that has not necessarily been replicated in national votes in the past. “This is a vote that can change our daily lives because it’s about our arrondissement, our streets, our local schools,” she said.

Source: The Irish Times March 16, 2026 20:03 UTC