France’s far-right National Rally gains ground in Senate vote
France's far-right National Rally (RN) party and its allies have achieved a significant victory in the recent Senate vote, securing a record 14 seats. This marks the first time the RN has gained enough seats to form its own caucus in the 348-seat chamber. The indirect election of senators saw the party quadruple its previous representation. RN leader Marine Le Pen described the outcome as a "historic victory" and a "major milestone." The RN's growing presence in the Senate comes months before the presidential election, for which Le Pen is preparing to run. The party's senators plan to form an alliance with the Union of the Right for the Republic.