A presidential election takes place every five years, by universal direct suffrage, and follows the two-round system. If a candidate gets an absolute majority (over 50% of the vote) in the first round, they are immediately elected. If not, a second round of voting occurs with only the top two candidates from the first round. The candidate with the most votes in the second round is then elected President of the Republic.
Here is a summary of the French presidential election process:
- First Round: French voters cast their ballots for a candidate of their choice.
- Second Round: If no candidate receives a majority of votes, a second round is held between the two candidates who received the highest number of votes in the first round.
- Inauguration: The elected candidate is inaugurated as the President of the Republic.
To be eligible to be elected President of France, a candidate must meet the following criteria:
- French nationality
- At least 18 years old
- Registered to vote in France
- Not disqualified by law from holding public office
- Not under investigation for any serious offense