French President Emmanuel Macron and his far-right challenger Marine Le Pen clashed in a TV debate that laid bare their differences, as they prepare to face off in the presidential runoff Sunday.
The centrist incumbent beat a familiar tune of heavy investment in French industry and an uncompromising commitment to the European Union. Le Pen, the leader of the far-right National Rally party, cast herself as the voice of a public struggling with a cost-of-living crisis.Le Pen, who lost to Macron in the 2017 runoff, said she was"obliged to be the spokesperson of the people" and promised to be"the president of sovereignty.
Everything you need to know about Sunday's French election 02:48The President argued that the European Union works in France's favor, particularly when faced with markets like those of the US and China, whose populations far outstrip its own."It's there that Europe is useful for us. When Google comes and attacks us in our market, who comes and helps us? Europe. And when these big groups don't pay their taxes in our countries, what allows us to fight back? Europe.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Will far-left French voters back far-right Le Pen in the second round?Jean-Luc Melenchon, the French far-left presidential candidate, has become a kingmaker, coming third in the first round. If Macron is cold-shouldered by Melenchon's supporters, far-right Le Pen might have a chance to snatch a victory.
Read more »
Macron, Le Pen square off for decisive debate as vote loomsIn the climax of France’s presidential campaign, centrist President Emmanuel Macron and far-right contender Marine Le Pen will meet Wednesday evening in a one-on-one television debate that could prove decisive before Sunday’s runoff vote.
Read more »
Macron vs. Le Pen 2022: What to know about France’s presidential election runoffWhat are the chances Macron loses? Why does the election matter?
Read more »
France’s Macron and Le Pen Clash During Presidential DebateFrench President Emmanuel Macron and far-right leader Marine Le Pen clashed over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, trading blows over which candidate was closer to Moscow and better equipped to navigate the economic fallout from the war
Read more »
Macron warns Le Pen risks 'civil war' in France with headscarf banFrench President Emmanuel Macron and far-right rival Marine Le Pen clash bitterly over Islamic headdress, ties with Russia and economic policy as they seek to sway undecided voters in a debate four days ahead of presidential elections.
Read more »
Macron attacks Le Pen on Russia, Muslim headscarf ban pledgePARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron tore into his far-right challenger Marine Le Pen in a television debate Wednesday for her ties to Russia and for wanting to strip Muslim women of…
Read more »