National Rally Forms First Senate Caucus in French History

The National Rally and its right-wing allies secured enough seats in Sunday's indirect Senate elections to form an official caucus for the first time in the party's history. By clearing the 10-seat threshold, the far-right group gained the formal ability to request votes in the upper chamber.

The National Rally won nine seats during this cycle, adding to three seats previously won in 2023. Ally Eric Ciotti and his Union of the Right for the Republic secured two additional seats, ensuring the group surpassed the required limit. Of the 348 total seats in the Senate, 178 were contested in this election.

Marine Le Pen described the result as a "historic victory" and a "major milestone" as she prepares for the 2027 presidential election following the departure of Emmanuel Macron. Jordan Bardella confirmed that the party's senators would form the group alongside their UDR allies.