2026 French Elections: RN Results Mapped & Key Wins

French Municipal Elections: Second Round Outlook After Initial Gains for the RN

The first round of the 2026 French municipal elections, held on March 16th, saw gains for the Rassemblement National (RN) in numerous cities, with several key candidates elected or qualifying for the second round. As France prepares for the second round of voting, attention is focused on whether these initial successes will translate into broader gains for the far-right party, and what potential alliances might emerge to counter them. Understanding the latest polling data and the dynamics at play in major cities is crucial to assessing the likely outcomes.

RN Celebrates Initial Successes

Despite setbacks in larger cities, the RN has characterized the first round as a “victory,” citing increased scores and the election or qualification of its leading candidates. This positive assessment comes amidst a broader trend of the right and far-right attempting to forge alliances, particularly in response to the potential for gains by the radical left La France Insoumise (LFI). The party’s performance is being closely watched as a barometer of its growing influence in local politics. CNews reports on the results of key RN leaders in the first round.

Key Results from the First Round

Several notable results emerged from the first round of voting. In Perpignan (Pyrénées-Orientales), incumbent Louis Aliot was re-elected with 50.61% of the vote, securing his position without the need for a second round. This victory was aided by the support of Jean-Marc Pujol, a former right-wing mayor. Aliot defeated Agnès Langevine of Place Publique (15.94%) and candidates from the right and left, including Bruno Nougayrède (13.45%) and Mickaël Idrac (9.60%).

In Toulon (Var), Laure Lavalette, a former spokesperson for Marine Le Pen, secured 42.05% of the vote, positioning her strongly for the second round. She outperformed the incumbent mayor, Josée Massi, who received 29.47% of the vote. Senator Michel Bonnus, backed by Hubert Falco, received 15.71% and has since withdrawn from the race.

Potential for Alliances: The Right and Far-Right

The possibility of alliances between the right and far-right has been a central theme leading up to the second round. Early in February, sources close to Eric Ciotti, president of the Union des Droites pour la République (UDR), suggested a “reverse republican front” could materialize to block the left. This would involve mayors and Les Républicains (LR) officials negotiating deals between the two rounds. However, the extent to which this will occur remains uncertain. Le Monde reported on these divisions within the right and far-right in February 2026.

RN’s Stance on Alliances

Jordan Bardella, of the Rassemblement National, indicated a willingness to discuss joint lists or rallying lists in the second round, but only if there is a risk of the far-left La France Insoumise (LFI) gaining control of a significant number of municipalities. This suggests the RN is prioritizing preventing a left-wing victory over broader coalition-building with the traditional right.

What Remains Unclear

While the initial results and statements from party leaders provide some insight, several key details remain unclear. The extent to which the “reverse republican front” will materialize is still unknown. The specific polling data for the second round in major cities has not been fully released. It remains unclear how the withdrawal of candidates like Michel Bonnus in Toulon will impact voter behavior in the second round. Details were not provided regarding specific negotiations between the RN and other parties.

The Broader Context: A Volatile Electorate

The current political climate in France is characterized by a volatile electorate, making predictions about the second round particularly challenging. The potential for alliances, the strength of the far-left, and the ability of the traditional right to unite will all play a crucial role in determining the final outcomes. The elections are being viewed as a significant test of the political landscape ahead of the next national elections.

What Happens Next?

The second round of voting will take place on [Date not provided in source]. The focus will be on key cities where the RN has a strong chance of winning or gaining significant ground. The outcome will likely have implications for the balance of power in local governments and could signal a shift in the national political landscape. The results will be closely analyzed for indications of the RN’s continued growth and its potential to challenge the established political parties in future elections.