National Rally won at least 14 Senate seats Sunday.

The group gives France’s far right speaking time, committee seats and a voice on constitutional votes.

Senators are chosen indirectly by roughly 93,500 mayors and local councillors, not by voters directly.

The Republicans and allies still hold a Senate majority, at least 127 seats, despite Sunday’s swing.

A new poll shows Le Pen leading April’s first-round presidential vote with 35% to 36% support.

How each outlet framed it

drawn from 200+ reports worldwide

France 24
The Irish Times
Anadolu Ajansı
The Times of India
South China Morning Post
explains Senate elected by 93,500 local officials voting along party lines, not direct public vote

Sources: France 24, The Irish Times, Anadolu Ajansı, The Times of India, South China Morning Post