Sarkozy-Royal tie
Despite the high tones, neither of the two candidates prevailed in the impressions
The economy, the environment, unemployment and foreign policy are among the issues discussed by the candidates in the second round of the French presidential election, which will be held on May 6, in their first and last televised contest. The debate lasted 35 minutes longer than the two hours originally planned and is estimated to have been watched by at least 20 million French citizens. The positions of the candidatesThe controversy of the candidates on all issues was intense. Nicolas Sarkozy tried to defend his policy during his time as interior minister and to project the image of an irreconcilable politician. He promised to boost the economy and reiterated his stance on controlled migration, while saying a clear "no" to Turkey's accession to the European Union. "The 35-hour work week was a complete disaster for the French economy, we have to say that," said Segolene Royal. He accused Sarkozy of "political immorality", tried to show that he could take over the presidency, set the fight against unemployment and social inequality as key priorities, and said that negotiations should continue with Turkey. The echo in the two campsSatisfaction prevails in the environment of the right-wing candidate. He was very clear, precise and calm, his associates said of Nicolas Sarkozy, who described Segolene Royal as "vague and vague". "Nicolas Sarkozy has shown that he knows in depth all the problems," commented the President of the French National Assembly, Patrick Ogier. Conversely, the comments from the camp of the socialist Royal were similar. She was superb, showed dynamism and a modern mindset while forcing Nicolas Sarkozy to constantly defend himself and handle various issues badly, her supporters said. Segolene Royal was "dazzling" and "penetrating," said former Culture Minister Jacques Lang. However, independent political analysts do not agree with these views, who estimate that the televised match did not show a clear winner. Similar comments are made in the French press. As in any electoral contest, however, the solution is given by the voters at the ballot box. It is worth noting that nine out of ten voters say they had decided before the televised debate who they would vote for on Sunday.
