The Digester

France tests far-right strength in municipal elections

Mar 15th 2026

Nearly 49 million voters are choosing local councillors in municipal elections seen as a key test of the far-right National Rally and a bellwether ahead of the 2027 presidential vote.

  • Voters are electing local councillors who will choose mayors across nearly 35,000 communes in France.
  • The vote is seen as a major national barometer ahead of the 2027 presidential election and a key test for the far-right National Rally.
  • The National Rally is running about 650 lists and has 33 members of parliament standing, aiming to expand its limited local footprint.
  • If no list wins an absolute majority, a second round will be held on March 22 including all lists with at least 10 percent of the vote.
  • Nearly 49 million people are eligible to vote, and key local issues include security, housing and local taxes.
  • High-profile contests in Paris and Marseille are being closely watched for signals about broader national trends.

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