Le Pen’s hard right looks set to dominate the French parliament

The French are heading to the polls, and into the dark. For the first time in the country’s post-war history, a final parliamentary vote on July 7th could still enable the hard right to enter government. But after tactical party arrangements following first-round voting on June 30th, its chances of securing a majority by itself have receded. Voters may instead give no political bloc control. Far from settling France’s political divisions, Emmanuel Macron’s surprise decision to call a snap election looks likely to usher in a period of deadlock, apprehension and instability.