French presidential campaign heats up as student protests fuel political clashes

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has clashed with far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon over high school protests demanding more resources for educationPARIS -- French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu clashed with far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon on Monday over the actions of high school students who are blockading classes and pushing for a nationwide spread of their fledgling protest movement for more resources.The exchanges in posts on social media between Lecornu and Mélenchon, a top presidential contender, reflected the increasingly combative political climate ahead of a crucial presidential election next spring and amid mounting pressure over France’s finances. Politicians across the ideological spectrum are seeking issues that resonate with voters. Complaints from students about deteriorating schools, teacher shortages and heavy class schedules have become the latest cause embraced by some presidential hopefuls.Lecornu, meanwhile, is trying to build enough public and political support to pass a 2027 state budget through a divided parliament, where President Emmanuel Macron 's government is besieged by opponents, many of whom are unwilling to accept proposed spending cut...