Emmanuel Macron, a centrist, is in the final stretch of his presidency as France faces intense protests. Macron has acknowledged failures in planning and intelligence. Constitutionally barred from a third term, his popularity is at its lowest since taking office in 2017. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen is seen as the favorite in next year's election, capitalizing on the unrest. Far-left contender Jean-Luc Mélenchon backs the protest movement while condemning looting. Polls show Le Pen as the front-runner, with Mélenchon in second.