Riots deepen France's divisions, boosting Le Pen's 2027 chances

France faces deepening polarization as riots over rising prices and living costs spread, with looting and attacks on town halls intensifying existing divisions. President Emmanuel Macron has limited options to address the unrest amid a weak economy and parliamentary deadlock. Macron is unlikely to call new elections or resign, while external factors like wars in Ukraine and Iran offer no quick relief. Marine Le Pen of the far-right National Rally emerges as the leading contender for the 2027 presidential election, as violence boosts her party's image as the enforcer of order. Left-wing leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon's early support for protests has drawn criticism after they turned violent, potentially benefiting social democrat Raphaël Glucksmann in a runoff against Le Pen. EU leaders increasingly accept Le Pen as a possible partner, comparing her to Italy's Giorgia Meloni, while France's high debt limits drastic policy shifts.