Introduction

Just days before the first round of the French presidential election, polls are showing that the far-right leader Marine Le Pen is within just a few points of overturning Emmanuel Macron's lead. What is behind her surge in support? Could she actually win the whole thing?

Ido Vock, Europe correspondent, is joined by the political theorist Hugo Drochon and the New Statesman’s international managing editor Alix Kroeger to discuss the campaign. They talk about why the cost-of-living crisis could be the most important issue, and whether Macron has been too complacent.

Podcast listeners can subscribe to the New Statesman for just £1 or €1 a week for 12 weeks using our special offer. Just visit www.newstatesman.com/podcastoffer.

Further reading:

Could Marine Le Pen really win the French presidency?

A look at the polls in the French presidential election.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.