Hamas releases video of Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin
France-Presidential: 25.48% participation at noon
The presidential elections in France reached 25.48% turnout at noon, three points less than in 2017. The outcome of this first round is uncertain and the abstention rate can work in favor of the far right .
The participation of the French in the vote in the first round of the presidential election on Sunday stood at 25.48% at noon, showing a decline of some three points less on average compared to 2017 which had amounted to 28.54% and in 2012 established at 28.3%, according to figures from the Ministry of the Interior.
Political observers were worried about a high abstention rate among the French and were counting on a rate as low as that of April 21, 2002. Turnout at the time, during the first round, was 21.39%, or the lowest rate ever recorded in France.
This year, the French are called upon to decide between 12 candidates, including 3 favorites, giving the advantage to two of them. The election can reveal surprises, which can result in a victory for the far right which would be a first, or a vote in favor of the radical left to show the third candidate.
.