France's Far-Right Seizes on Riots to Boost Presidential Campaign

France's far-right National Rally is capitalizing on weekend riots across the country, blaming both the centrist government and radical left for the chaos while positioning itself as the party of law and order ahead of presidential elections in six months. Party leader Jordan Bardella visited a Paris police station Sunday to show support for officers, urging "honest citizens" to vote for his party to restore national stability. The riots erupted after peaceful protests over school conditions and living costs were overshadowed by violence targeting public buildings and shops. Marine Le Pen, the party's presidential candidate and frontrunner, attacked leftist leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon for allegedly legitimizing violence, while analysts note the unrest reinforces the party's narrative of a divided France. The country faces a budget deficit and hung parliament, with no party holding a majority. US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance blamed immigrants for the violence, echoing National Rally's rhetoric, though their unpopularity in France may complicate the party's messaging. Political scientists caution that six months is a long time in politics, and voter motivations are complex.