On The Issues: Le Pen Versus Macron

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By Grant M. Deltz

Following Sunday’s surprising French presidential election resulting in a May 7 runoff election, the political folk of the world have seemingly become experts on politics in France. If you are late to the party and want a rundown on the two frontrunners to be the next French leader, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down both candidates and their views issue by issue.

Marine Le Pen

Marine Le Pen is the far-right nationalist candidate in this race. Let’s look at her stances.

The EU: Le Pen wants to negotiate France’s standing in the European Union. If she does not get all she asks for, she will support a “Frexit” by referendum with the intention to remove France from the EU.

Immigration: In addition to closing France’s no-border zones, Le Pen has made it clear that she plans to limit immigration and restore its borders by withdrawing from the Schengen agreement, which allows for passport-free travel among the 26 Euro nations.

Retirement: Plans to lower retirement age to 60.

Taxes: Le Pen wants to cut income taxes for the lower class, fight tax evasion, and simplify tax rules. She plans to tax companies who hire foreign immigrants in hopes to encourage the employment of French workers.

Emmanuel Macron

The outsider candidate who has never held public office before, Emmanuel Macron is the moderate centrist hoping to become Frances next president. Let’s look at his views.

The EU: Macron wants to stay in the Euro and become closer with France’s neighbors.

Immigration: An encourager of welcoming refugees, Macron is against closing the borders and wants to attract more immigration.

Security: He wishes to secure the nation and protect from terrorism while not intruding on the liberties of the French.

Taxes/Spending: Macron would seek to lower the corporate tax rate from 33% to 25% and would cut local housing taxes for the majority of the French. He advocates for cutting public spending by 60 billion Euros per year.

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