The 2002 French presidential election was held in two rounds on April 21 and May 5. The election featured a significant surprise when Jean-Marie Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Front, advanced to the second round, defeating the incumbent president Jacques Chirac and the socialist candidate Lionel Jospin in the first round. In the second round, Chirac won decisively with about 82% of the vote against Le Pen. This election highlighted the rise of extremist parties in France and led to widespread protests against Le Pen's candidacy, reflecting concerns about his controversial views and policies.