In France\u2019s most consequential election in recent history, voters on Sunday endorsed Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen \u2014 one a political novice, the other a far-right firebrand \u2014 both outsiders but with starkly different visions for the country, early returns and projections indicated.<\/p>\n
The result was a full-throated rebuke of France\u2019s traditional mainstream parties, setting the country on an uncertain path at a critical moment when France\u2019s election could also decide the future of the European Union. The two candidates appeared to be headed to a runoff on May 7.<\/p>\n
Mr. Macron, a former investment banker, abandoned traditional parties a year ago to form his own movement with an eclectic blend of left and right views. He campaigned on a pro-European Union platform, coupled with calls to overhaul the rules governing the French economy.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe French people have decided to put me ahead of the first round of the vote,\u201d Mr. Macron told jubilant supporters at a rally in Paris. \u201cI\u2019m aware of the honor and the responsibility that rest on my shoulders.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ms. Le Pen\u2019s success is a victory for skeptics who oppose the European Union and for those who want to see more \u201cFrance first\u201d policies to restrict signs of Muslim faith in public, like the wearing of head scarves.<\/p>\n