This paper re-addresses the argument according to which the French political party system is being shaped by a tendency toward an imperfect two-party configuration by subjecting it to a comparative test. It shows that regardless of the method of representation, the European dynamic is moving toward increased dominance by two main parties, with the exception of some countries that have a longstanding tradition of multiple cleavages. The French party system is a leading contributor to this shift. In 2007, the UMP and the Socialist Party (PS) were clearly dominant thanks to their ability to win a presidential election and secure a majority in the National Assembly, respectively, even if this dominance is not–“or not yet–“reflected in the electorate itself.