The eyes of Europe have all collectively locked onto France as their Presidential election is vibrantly underway. Last Sunday, the first round of the election was held, leading to a victory for centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron and far-right candidate Marine Le Pen. As these two candidates claimed their separate victories. the consensus is clear that this election could be the most consequential election in recent memory for for both France and Europe.

Each candidate seems to exemplify both ends of the tense French political spectrum. On one hand, Emmanuel Macron stands for a pro-European outlook. Creator of his own political party En Marche!, he hopes to maintain membership in the European Union and NATO. On the other hand, there is Marine Le Pen. She has vigorously campaigned against the effects of globalization on France. A candidate of the National Front, she aims to significantly curb immigration and give "France back to its people." In addition, she hopes to withdraw from the defense system of NATO.

The results of this elections could have incredibly far reaching ramifications. Pen has been colloquially dubbed "Madame Frexit," signaling her unambiguous intention to withdraw from the European Union if elected. With Brexit ongoing, the sustainable future of the European union could be called into serious question. Furthermore, the nationalist, far right movement could also gain serious ground with a French presidential victory. Such momentum quite possible usurp German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the centrist de facto leader of Europe, in her fourth re-election bid. While polls show Macron having a slight lead over Le Pen, it really is any person's race to win. Nevertheless, this race will surely be the most important European election in the 21st century.