Europe Decides

Perhaps the French candidates could use a touch of James Carville as they head down the home stretch — after all as a native of Louisiana, the ragin cajun probably has some French ancestry in his background. With 40 percent of the population still undecided on which lever to pull this Sunday in the first round of the French elections maybe the candidates could use the help of Frederic Bastiat (renowned French economist). Because, all the candidates have danced around the most important issue facing France — it’s lagging economy.

As some of their best and brightest leave for the UK and America, all the candidates point to the effect, rather than the cause of the problem. Extremely high unemployment for young french men and women entering the workforce — particularly those of Middle East and African origin — a growing state payroll and employment laws that in effect enforce a job for life rule on the employer make for a perfect economic storm.

Who ever makes it to the second round should be thinking about what types of changes are needed to sustain the culture, lifestyle and economic prowess that has allowed France to maintain its swagger on the global stage. Will it be the reincarnation of Napoleon or Joan of Arc? Whom ever it is, let’s hope for the sake of the French citizens they have a plan. Otherwise the only ones reaping financial rewards from this election, will bet the bookies taking bets on the outcome of this very tight race.