France (Washington Insider Magazine) – As France approaches the final round of parliamentary elections on Sunday, a rising number of candidates and activists have faced violent or verbal assaults. The political atmosphere has grown increasingly tense, with the far-right National Rally (RN) leading in the polls.
Assault on Government Spokeswoman
According to Bbcnews, government spokeswoman Prisca Thevenot and her team were attacked while putting up election posters in Meudon, near Paris. A group of youths assaulted Thevenot, her deputy Virginie Lanlo, and a party activist for President Emmanuel Macron’s Ensemble alliance. The attackers injured Lanlo and the activist, who suffered a broken jaw.
Nationwide Incidents and Arrests
Other campaigners across France have also been targeted, reflecting the heightened political tensions. Police have arrested three teenagers and a 20-year-old man in connection with the Meudon attack. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal condemned the violence, calling it “intolerable cowardice.”
Political Leaders Respond
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced the deployment of 30,000 police officers for Sunday’s vote to prevent further violence from “the ultra-left or ultra-right.” RN leader Jordan Bardella emphasized his commitment to combating insecurity and repeat offenses.
Voter Concerns
Voters in northern France expressed fears of potential unrest regardless of the election outcome. Law and order, immigration, and tax cuts are major priorities for RN, which has also seen its candidates come under attack. Marie Dauchy was assaulted while campaigning in La Rochette, and Nicolas Conquer reported being pelted with eggs. Another RN candidate was hospitalized last month after being attacked during a campaign event.
