Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


French Conservatives Vote in First Nationwide Presidential Primary

by VOA News

   French conservatives are voting Sunday in a nationwide primary to
   choose their nominee for next year's presidential election, following a
   campaign marked by concerns about the influx of migrants into Europe
   and the devastating series of jihadist attacks in France.

   After Britain's shock Brexit vote and Donald Trump's victory in the
   U.S. presidential contest, the French presidential vote is shaping up
   to be another test between mainstream parties and rising populist
   forces.

   Seven candidates are competing Sunday in the first round of the primary
   with 61-year-old former president Nicolas Sarkozy and former prime
   ministers Francois Fillon, 62, and Alain Juppe, 71, leading the race.

   A closely watched contender is the far right's Marine Le Pen, whose
   criticism of immigration and Muslim practices resonates with many
   voters.

   This is the first such primary organized by France's conservatives.
   Previously, candidates were designated internally.

   Results from the first round of voting are expected late Sunday, and
   the runoff is scheduled for November 27.