Laurent Wauquiez, newly elected deputy from Haute-Loire, has emerged as a key figure in French right-wing politics.

He was chosen to lead the newly formed 'Republican Right' parliamentary group, replacing Les Républicains.

Wauquiez won his seat with 61.61% of the votes, despite facing strong competition from the far-right.

In a strategic move, he's proposing a 'legislative pact' while rejecting any governmental alliance with President Macron's party.

This approach aims to position the right as a 'positive force' in the National Assembly, addressing concerns of political deadlock without compromising their independence.