It's the Brian Laird Show and WNYc, Good morning again everyone. I'm Bridget Bergen in for Brian today.

In France and Britain, two major elections happening this week are poised to overturn current

long-term ruling parties in both countries.

In the UK, Prime Minister Rishizi Sunak, head of the Conservative Party,

will square off against his Labour Party opponent, Kir Starmer, in an election tomorrow, July 4th.

And in France, President Emmanuel Macron has called for a snap election of his country's National Assembly.

The first round which took place last Sunday

put the far-right national rally,

led by a Marine Le Pen in first placed.

President Macron's party, the more centrist

Ansemblay Alliance, came in third place behind the left-wing new popular front

coalition. Since no party got a clear majority, the country is now headed to a runoff election that will take place

this coming Sunday.

The elections in both countries could signify a turning point for the long-standing political

parties who have held power over their countries for years. The Washington Post

says the UK's conservatives face quote in an extinction level event after 14 years in power

while political Europe is reporting on the machinations of opposing parties in France

including candidates bowing out of races in an attempt to block Lippen from winning and outright majority.

Joining us now to break down the latest on both elections and what's at stake are two journalists from the economist.

They are Paris Bureau Chief, Sophie Peder, and Britain editor Andrew Palmer.

Sophie and Andrew, welcome to WNYC.

Hello.

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