TOP TWO WILL FACE RUNOFF MAY 7
by Sharon Rondeau
(Apr. 23, 2017) — As this article goes to press, the French are concluding the casting of their votes in what is expected to be the first stage in their presidential election, which encompasses a total of 11 candidates.
The New York Times and The Telegraph have reported that polling stations in large cities will remain open until 8 PM local time, which is 2 PM EDT. Voting in smaller locales closed at 7 PM local time, or 1 PM EDT.
Out of the 11, four candidates have been polling very closely and ahead of the remaining seven: former Economy Minister under current president Francois Hollande and former Rothschild banker Emmanuel Macron of the “En Marche!” Party; Francois Fillon, who is considered a “center-right” candidate but is battling an embezzlement charge; socialist Jean-Luc Melenchon, who has used virtual appearances and online technology to appeal to young voters; and Marine LePen of the Front National, who favors leaving the European Union and whose campaign also appears to be surprisingly popular among young voters.
Should no candidate receive greater than 50% support on Sunday, a runoff election between the top two will take place on May 7. Unlike in the U.S., where the Electoral College actually votes for the president after Election Day, French citizens votes directly for their president.
Both Melenchon and Le Pen wish to reconsider France’s membership in the European Union.
Le Pen is the only woman among the 11 contenders.
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Update, 2:12 p.m. EDT (7:12 p.m. French time): Le Pen and Macron are the projected winners, according to The Telegraph.