The role of Catholics as a social force within right-wing politics in France has been significant. According to sociologists Guy Michelat and Michel Simon, regular Catholic practitioners have traditionally voted in favor of the center-right, associated with Gaullism and Christian democracy, while non-practicing Catholics have historically been more inclined to support the far-right National Front (now known as the National Rally). Regular churchgoers have generally resisted voting for the National Front, with the exception of some traditionalist groups. They have also been supportive of European integration, as evidenced by their majority support for the treaties of Maastricht and the European Constitution, as well as their backing of pro-European candidates in elections.
Catholics have historically played a stabilizing, moderating, and pro-European role within the right-wing political spectrum. However, this influence appears to be waning, as support for the National Rally has been on the rise since the 2015 regional elections, particularly in the wake of Islamist terrorist attacks. In the 2022 presidential election, Marine Le Pen garnered 21% of the vote among regular Catholic practitioners, coming in second behind Emmanuel Macron at 25%. The fears of Islamism, cultural decline, and a general disillusionment with mainstream politics following events such as the anti same-sex marriage movement La Manif pour Tous have fueled a shift towards more radical right-wing political options among Catholic voters.
The landscape of Catholic voting behavior has undergone a significant transformation, with a noticeable fragmentation and radicalization of support. In 2017, François Fillon received 55% of the votes among regular Catholic practitioners, indicating a significant shift towards more diverse and extreme right-wing candidates within the Catholic electorate. The 2022 election saw a substantial increase in support for candidates like Le Pen, Zemmour, Dupont-Aignan, and Lassalle among Catholic voters, reflecting a growing number of dissenting or extremist right-wing votes within the community. This trend underscores the deep-seated conflicts of values and tactical choices that are dividing Catholic voters in contemporary French politics.
The issue of Catholic voting behavior remains a complex and evolving phenomenon within the French political landscape. While Catholics have historically been a key constituency for center-right parties, recent trends suggest a diversification and polarization of support among Catholic voters. The rise of more extreme right-wing candidates and the changing political climate characterized by issues such as terrorism and cultural identity have reshaped the traditional patterns of Catholic voting behavior. The future role of Catholics within the French political spectrum remains uncertain, as ongoing societal and political developments continue to shape their attitudes and preferences.
Overall, the evolving dynamics of Catholic voting behavior in France highlight the shifting alliances, values, and priorities within the country’s political landscape. While Catholics have traditionally played a significant role in supporting center-right parties and European integration, recent trends indicate a growing fragmentation and radicalization of support among Catholic voters. The rise of more extreme right-wing candidates and the changing political climate underscore the complexities and challenges of navigating religious identities and political affiliations in contemporary French society. As future elections unfold and new issues emerge, the role of Catholics within French politics is likely to continue evolving and shaping the country’s electoral landscape.
