Macron's template to defeat the Populist Right

Results today came in for the fresh French presidential elections, and as the polls had predicted, centrist Emmanuel Macron won with a safe margin (66%). He saw off far right rival Marine Le Pen, as the National Front won only 34% of the vote. Macron, the "un-populist" political outsider went from being non existent in French politics to become the favourite for the presidency. After he got to the second round, received a flood of endorsements from the political centre, right and left - as he presented himself to be the only competent candidate. But was his victory an endorsement of the centre, or just a rejection of the tame fascism presented by Le Pen? Over 11 million ballots were spoilt yesterday, symbolising huge discontent with both candidates - as the left wanted not to vote for "Big Businesses" nor vote for facism. To those in Britain, Macron reminds them of a certain Prime Minister: Tony Blair - or more specifically, the Tony Blair of 20 years ago. They're both young, charismatic, egotistical and market liberals. Both so similar, yet circumstances so different. Blair triumphed through hope, where as Macron won through fear. What about Europe? One could easily assume from the result they France has solidified its support in the EU, it has indeed just elected a europhile. However, one must remember over 40% of the electorate endorsed a Eurpskeptic candidate in the first round (Le Pen and Melenchon). Any wrong doing on Macrons part, and it's easy to see the Europe question returning to the forefront of French politics once again.

A blueprint to defend our democracy perhaps, but a man who stood for very little other than "I'm not her".