Tara, otherwise known as Paris Parfait, has written up last night's French televised debate between Segelene Royal and Nicolas Sarkozy. Her post is worth checking out if you're curious about the situation in France.

She begins: Last night I watched the riveting debate between presidential candidates Segelene Royal and Nicolas Sarkozy. For two-and-a-half hours, it was the best of political theatre. In my opinion, whoever wins the election, Madame Royal won the debate, hands down. She gave a masterful performance, looking directly at Sarkozy as she made her case for changes needed in France. While she was talking, Sarkozy often looked at the moderators (who were hopelessly ineffective) or scribbled notes.