Far-right National Rally places third after France election, exit poll indicates

In the latest developments from France's parliamentary election, exit polls suggest the country is heading towards a hung parliament, with power divided among three significant groups. The far-right National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, has secured the third position in the second round of voting, contrary to expectations of emerging as the dominant force in French politics after President Emmanuel Macron's decision to call for a snap poll. The left-wing New Popular Front coalition has emerged victorious in the second voting round, with estimates indicating they could secure between 180-215 seats in parliament, slightly ahead of President Macron's centrist group and the National Rally. Following the first round of parliamentary voting where the National Rally led, centrist and leftist parties strategically withdrew 221 candidates to avoid three-way run-offs, showcasing a united front against the far-right party. Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of the left-wing France Unbowed party within the NFP, expressed relief at the exit poll projections, emphasizing the organized and detailed program of the coalition. President Macron's office has affirmed that he will respect the choice of the French people, hinting at a potential period of instability unless the left can form alliances with other parties. The snap election, called by President Macron on 10 June, has seen France Unbowed emerge as the largest party within the NFP, with Melenchon considered a key figure despite the coalition having no official leader. The campaign has been marked by volatility, with over 50 candidates reporting physical attacks, leading to heightened security measures with more than 30,000 police deployed on voting day. The outcome of the election remains uncertain, with the possibility of negotiations and alliances shaping the future political landscape of France amidst a closely contested race.