Senate: Indirect Election and Role

The Senate represents French territorial collectivities and French citizens living abroad. Often called the "Grand Council of French Communes," it embodies territorial democracy and legislative reflection.

Unique Electoral System

The Senate's indirect election distinguishes it from most democratic upper houses:

Electoral College: Approximately 162,000 electors choose senators, including: - Municipal councilors (about 95% of electors) - Departmental councilors - Regional councilors - National Assembly deputies - Current senators not up for reelection

Staggered Terms: Senators serve six-year terms with half renewed every three years. This ensures continuity and insulates the Senate from temporary political passions.

Electoral Methods: Departments use different systems based on the number of senators: - Departments electing 1-2 senators: Two-round majority system - Departments electing 3+ senators: Proportional representation

Rural Overrepresentation: The system deliberately overrepresents rural areas and small towns, reflecting the Senate's role as guardian of territorial balance.

The Senate's Distinctive Character

Several factors give the Senate its particular character:

Political Moderation: The indirect election and rural base traditionally produced a conservative-leaning chamber, though urban growth and political evolution have diversified its composition.

Institutional Continuity: Unlike the Assembly, the Senate cannot be dissolved, providing institutional stability during political crises.

Expertise and Experience: Longer terms and less partisan pressure allow senators to develop policy expertise. Many senators simultaneously hold local executive positions, bringing practical governance experience.

Territorial Advocacy: Senators see themselves as defenders of local government prerogatives against central state encroachment.

Legislative Powers and Limitations

The Senate shares legislative power with the National Assembly but within important constraints:

Equal Legislative Authority: Bills can originate in either chamber (except finance bills, which must start in the Assembly). Both chambers must approve identical texts for bills to become law.

The Shuttle System: Bills move between chambers until agreement is reached. This "navette" can involve multiple readings and amendments.

Assembly Predominance: When chambers disagree, the government can convene a joint committee. If compromise fails, the government can give the Assembly the final word (except for constitutional amendments and institutional laws affecting the Senate).

Constitutional Review: Sixty senators can refer laws to the Constitutional Council, providing an important minority protection.