French left-wing presidential hopefuls take part in first TV debate
- 7 years ago
Seven candidates have taken part in the first French left-wing TV debate ahead of a primary to choose a candidate for this year’s presidential race.
Ex-Prime Minister Manuel Valls has been a top favourite as candidate for the presidential ballot on April 23, enjoying a high profile.
But one flash poll after this first televised clash indicates that former economy minister Arnaud Montebourg was considered to be the winner by a few points.
But then Valls was slightly ahead in a poll of just left-wing voters, suggesting the race will be tight.
The Left is way down in the polls at this stage, behind the conservatives and the far-right.
But its choice of candidate could have an impact on the chances of the independent considered to be in third place: former economy minister Emmanuel Macron.
Far-right National Front leader Marine Le Pen is hoping to cause an upset and get through to the second round of the presidential vote, but she faces the prospect of being blocked by parties joining forces in the final round on May 7.
The Right in France has already chosen its presidential candidate, former Prime Minister Francois Fillon.
The primary votes on the left are set for January the 22nd and 29th, with two more television debates lined up.
Ex-Prime Minister Manuel Valls has been a top favourite as candidate for the presidential ballot on April 23, enjoying a high profile.
But one flash poll after this first televised clash indicates that former economy minister Arnaud Montebourg was considered to be the winner by a few points.
But then Valls was slightly ahead in a poll of just left-wing voters, suggesting the race will be tight.
The Left is way down in the polls at this stage, behind the conservatives and the far-right.
But its choice of candidate could have an impact on the chances of the independent considered to be in third place: former economy minister Emmanuel Macron.
Far-right National Front leader Marine Le Pen is hoping to cause an upset and get through to the second round of the presidential vote, but she faces the prospect of being blocked by parties joining forces in the final round on May 7.
The Right in France has already chosen its presidential candidate, former Prime Minister Francois Fillon.
The primary votes on the left are set for January the 22nd and 29th, with two more television debates lined up.