Overview
- The National Assembly approved the pivotal article of the municipal voting reform with 116 votes in favor and 44 against, advancing the proposal to the next legislative stages.
- The reform introduces two separate ballots: one for arrondissement or sector councilors and another for the municipal council, aiming to enhance transparency and representation.
- Critics argue the timing, less than a year before the 2026 elections, is politically motivated, with accusations of partisan maneuvering to influence outcomes in key cities like Paris.
- Supporters, including macronists, MoDem, La France insoumise, and the Rassemblement National, view the changes as a step toward fairer representation, while opposition comes from communists, ecologists, and many socialists.
- The reform reduces the majority bonus for the leading list from 50% to 25%, further polarizing opinions on its potential impact on municipal governance.