Economist 2016.11.21

1.A Republican primary upset knocks Nicolas Sarkozy out of France’s presidential race

caricaturing: a drawing that makes someone look funny or foolish because some part of the person's appearance is exaggerated.

Fillon took a strong lead in the primary for the French centre-right Republican party,  well ahead of the second contestant. On the other hand,  Nicolas Sarkozy conceded defeat,  although he had announced retirement from public life earlier on.

Fillon's weakness is on economics liberalism, such as reduced government spending and rewriting the labour-market rules as overly conservative.

Dillon's opposed to adoption by gay couples appeals to Catholics but put off the young generation. He warned of the threat of “Islamic totalitarianism”. Whereas Juppe called for a united identity for the French.

Juppe deals hard with Russia and Syria but Fillon

appears more open in foreign diplomacy.

In terms of character and personal charisma,  Fillon came across as prudent, sharp, and trustworthy during the debates. He being different from Sarkozy is also a factor for drawing Sarkozy's disappointed voters.

Reason for people's attention on the primary is the low popularity of the opposition parties and current president. This will put the Republican nominee in a strong position to become the next French president.

2.The i-word.

Talk about impeaching the S.korea president grows louder

Clout: power to influence or control.

Despite the mass protests against the S.Korean president Park,  she insisted to fulfill her duty as the president.

People accused Park for involving Choi for her advice on state affairs though she holds no official position, altering policy and orchestrated cabinet reshuffles,  abusing her power to win political and financial favours.

Supports for calls for Park's resignation or impeachment has exponentially increased.