This Sunday, France has important local elections. The Socialist Party needs to win in Paris. They have led the city for 25 years. Now, the right wing might take control. This could affect national politics too.
These elections are a test for voters. They show how people feel before the next presidential elections. The left-wing parties are working together. The Socialists are joining with the Greens and France Unbowed. They want to unite voters against the right.
However, some voters do not like France Unbowed. They also have concerns about its leader, Jean-Luc Mélenchon. Some people say his words are antisemitic. This makes it hard for the alliance to be strong.
Paris is very important. If the left loses there, it could mean less power for them in cities. The hard-right is expected to win in other areas, like the French Riviera. This shows a rise in conservative ideas in France.
But there is good news in Toulouse. In this city, the left-wing parties are united. France Unbowed and the Socialists have one list of candidates. They are the favorite to win. Their combined vote was much higher than the current mayor's.
The results in Paris will be important. They will help political parties plan for bigger elections. The left needs to show they are a good choice. Voters will decide if they want change this Sunday.