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Laurent Wauquiez seeks election in the Puy-du-Fou region.

LR party deputy leader endorsed Philippe de Villiers's referendum petition, arguing that foreigners are undeservedly granted all social benefits upon arrival, advocating an extreme-right viewpoint.

Laurent Wauquiez is vying for the Puy-du-Fou position.
Laurent Wauquiez is vying for the Puy-du-Fou position.

Laurent Wauquiez seeks election in the Puy-du-Fou region.

In the heart of French politics, the ongoing referendum on immigration remains a contentious issue that challenges the constitutional framework. The controversy stems from the unconstitutional nature of the referendum, as per the context, as the Constitution of France does not list immigration as a subject for which the President can call for a referendum to replace parliamentarians.

Laurent Wauquiez, the head of the Republican (LR) deputies, has found himself at the centre of this debate. He has signed a petition calling for a referendum on immigration, a move that has raised eyebrows given his status as a 'good' Gaullist defender of the Constitution.

However, Wauquiez's stance on the issue is not as straightforward as it seems. He has proposed a solution that aims to navigate the controversial and unconstitutional nature of the referendum. This strategic move is a part of the ongoing construction of the union of the right, which includes far-right elements.

Philippe de Villiers proposed a solution for Wauquiez to show support for a referendum on immigration, allowing him to take a stand without violating the constitution by signing Villiers' petition demanding such a referendum. Wauquiez's proposal does not fully comply with the constitutional requirements for a referendum on immigration, but it does allow him to appear to support the idea without endorsing a manifestly unconstitutional proposal.

The union of the right is a construction that includes far-right elements, and Wauquiez's proposal is seen as a strategic move to position him on the side of those in favour of a referendum on immigration. This move could potentially strengthen his position within the union, while maintaining his commitment to the Constitution.

Article 11 of the French Constitution lists the precise subjects for which the President can ask for a referendum to legislate. Given the current situation, it remains to be seen whether Wauquiez's proposal will gain traction or if it will be seen as a mere tactical manoeuvre in the ongoing debate.

As the referendum on immigration continues, the debate promises to remain a focal point in French politics, testing the boundaries of the constitutional framework and the commitments of those involved.

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