The Movement: Paris is burning. The American right is watching.

Republican lawmakers are seizing on unrest in France as a political tool ahead of the midterm elections, framing it as evidence of Democratic ties to immigration and socialist policies. Demonstrations began when students—primarily high schoolers—protested over deteriorating school conditions, sparking broader unrest. The issue has now become a flashpoint in U.S. political discourse, with Republicans attempting to link domestic debates to the overseas turmoil. Whether the connection holds or escalates remains a key question as the election approaches.

Protests and riots in France have become the latest Republican talking point in the U.S. as the party makes a last-ditch effort to tie Democrats to immigration and socialism two weeks out from the midterm elections. Protesters, largely high school students, first took to the streets earlier this month to demand better school conditions. Those...