Macron set for political upset as voters share tribute of ‘French Trump’ ‘He loves France’
French election: Voters explain support for Eric Zemmour
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
French voters shared their gushing tributes to Eric Zemmour who is quickly rising up the French election polls after standing on a more extreme and nationalistic ticket than his closest political rival, Marine Le Pen. Despite not officially a candidate yet, polls put Mr Zemmour only a few points behind Ms Le Pen as his notoriety grows. Fans of the political outsider warmed to his love of France and his defence of French culture as some brand Mr Zemmour the “French Trump” who could upset Emmanuel Macron’s hopes of reelection.
Voters were interviewed by Channel 4 News with one supporter explaining Mr Zemmour was defending France for the French.
She recalled the “Liberté, égalité, fraternité” motto of France but stressed Mr Zemmour was protecting everyone.
A pair of supporters were asked why they liked the politician and explained: “His sincerity, he is an intellectual, he knows France’s problems, he loves France.”
Another added: “We are patriots, we love France, we are republicans, we have a history and we love our history.”
READ MORE: Biden sends new Brexit warning over Article 16 threat for hated deal
Mr Zemmour’s support stems from upper-working to middle-class demographics who are concerned about the migrant crisis and the effect it will have on French culture.
A far-right politician, Mr Zemmour has written extensively about “replacement theory” which discusses the native French population being replaced by foreign nationalities.
The French presidential candidate appears to have filled the political gap left by Ms Le Pen who has moved her politics to be more moderate after her defeat in the last presidential election.
Ms Le Pen had been tipped to be a strong contender to Mr Macron in the second round of French votes but Mr Zemmour appears to be gaining ground.
France slammed by Mayer for 'irresponsible threat' over energy
In France, the presidential election uses the second vote system where there are two rounds of voting – one with all the candidates and another with the top two candidates from the first round.
Ms Le Pen and Mr Macron are tipped to be the two contenders in the last round but Mr Zemmour could bring an upset if he chooses to stand in April.
Politico’s poll of polls puts Mr Macron on 24 percent with Ms Le Pen and Mr Zemmour tied at 16 percent.
Politico also believes Mr Macron will win the second round 56 percent to 44 percent if squared off against Ms Le Pen but there is still plenty of time for Mr Zemmour to gain ground if he wishes to do so.
DON’T MISS
Furious revolt launched against hated SNP vaccine passport scheme [INSIGHT]
Sturgeon doubles taxpayers bill for army of spin doctors [REVEAL]
UK eye £9trillion Brexit prize – as talks open on Mexico trade deal [LATEST]
France has had a pressing political issue involving integrating Muslims into their society with voters concerned about the cultural divide.
Several terror attacks have rocked the country with Mr Macron coming under pressure from right-wing voters to crack down on Islamic terrorism.
Ms Le Pen is the leader of the French National Rally party which historically has been eurosceptic, anti-immigration, and has had ties to the far-right.
However, after learning from her defeat in 2017, Ms Le Pen has sought to distance herself from the far-right elements of her party and has toned down extremist rhetoric.
Political pundits suggest due to the looming Afghan refugee crisis, Ms Le Pen may see a positive uptick in her support for her 2022 presidential election campaign.
Source: Read Full Article