French local elections — follow live – POLITICO

PARIS — Polls have closed in the first round of elections in France that will see voters across the country’s 35,000-plus communes choose new mayors and city councilors for the first time in six years.

The contests, many of which will require a runoff vote next Sunday, are expected to be an important indicator of voter sentiment heading into next year’s high-stakes presidential election — though plenty of races will be driven by local issues and personalities.

It’s still early going, but some themes are emerging. Former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe looks likely to avoid a disaster that would have effectively knocked him out of next year’s presidential election. The far-right National Rally is projected to turn in a strong performance in some of its targets in southern France, while estimates show the hard-left France Unbowed is doing well in Lille and nearby Roubaix.

We’re still waiting on word about big cities like Paris and Marseille.

Read on for the latest information in the races and the ensuing political horse-trading expected to take place once results are in.

For a more in-depth primer, check out our guide on how to watch the elections like a pro.