2024-11-17 04:30:00
Officially there are still two possible paths for the left ahead of the 2026 Paris municipal elections. The first is simple and clearly defined: Anne Hidalgo volunteers for a third term and her candidacy is imposed a priori without debate. If the mayor’s base still seemed fragile in the 2020 municipal elections, four years later it has a completely different aura, nourished by the success of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the increasingly evident transformation of the capital. Only environmentalists, faithful to their line of independence, will not automatically mobilize.
The second path, that of the failed candidacy of the outgoing mayor, is entangled with political problems and full of uncertainties. Since her re-election in 2020, this path has always seemed the most likely, given that Anne Hidalgo had suggested that her second term would be her last, a hypothesis strengthened by her failure in the 2022 presidential elections, where she had garnered 1, 75% of the votes. But nothing has ever been done explicitly and, less than a year and a half before the municipal elections, the elected representatives of the Parisian majority are stalling waiting for their leader to take the first step in one direction or the other.
We are therefore always forced to read between the lines and interpret the implicit signals sent by everyone. The last, the three words released by Rémi Féraud, socialist senator of Paris, former mayor of the 10th arrondissement and faithful among Anne Hidalgo’s faithful, to Parisian and to all those who asked for confirmation: “I’m getting ready. »
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But still? “It’s not my place to speak”it limits itself to saying who has followed in the wake of Anne Hidalgo since the 2014 campaign. Above all, do not offend or coerce the chief councilor who, moreover, has not taken this small step forward, which could make people think that it was her. who pushed him. “When you don’t represent yourself, you have to prepare your succession and the one who approves of it the most is Rémi Féraud”confirms Patrick Bloche, first deputy mayor and one of the few not to keep an eye on his position. But we don’t think the die has been cast, “Anne Hidalgo wants to give herself freedom of choice”ensures. Enjoy the luxury of existing “position of strength” after the Games before formally confirming his decision, which would have already been made some time ago.
How might the outcome of the 2026 Paris elections affect the future of the left in French politics?
Interview: The Path Forward for Paris’ Left – A Conversation with Political Analyst Dr. Claire Dupont
Editor of Time.news (E): Good morning, Dr. Dupont! Thank you for joining us today. With the 2026 Paris municipal elections on the horizon, there are two distinct paths emerging for the left, particularly concerning Anne Hidalgo’s future. Can you provide us with an overview of these potential paths?
Dr. Claire Dupont (D): Good morning! Absolutely, it’s a pleasure to be here. As you mentioned, we see two primary options for the left. The first is Hidalgo volunteering for a third term, which would present a unified front for her party. Her popularity has significantly increased due to the successful hosting of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, which has certainly transformed her image.
E: It sounds like her second term has solidified her position. What about the second option, one where Hidalgo does not run? What implications would that have?
D: If Hidalgo chooses not to run, it opens up a myriad of uncertainties. Her previous decision to indicate that her second term would be her last, compounded by her poor performance in the 2022 presidential elections, suggest that her base is nervous about the future. Should she step back, it might create a leadership vacuum and prompt internal debates about her successor.
E: Interesting! You mentioned that her base has become stronger since 2020. Could you elaborate on how the Olympic Games have impacted her support?
D: Certainly! The successful organization of the Olympics has not only raised her profile but also highlighted her administration’s achievements in urban transformation and environmental initiatives. This has helped to consolidate her supporters, who now see tangible results from her policies. However, it’s crucial to note that environmentalists have remained independent, and they may not align automatically with her candidacy.
E: So, how does this independence from the environmentalist faction complicate the situation?
D: It creates a delicate balance. While Hidalgo may have strong support within certain circles, she risks alienating others who prioritize environmental concerns. If she runs, she will need a strategy to engage these voters. If she doesn’t, the left will have to find a candidate who can unify the party while also appealing to this important demographic.
E: With less than a year and a half before the elections, do you see any signs that Hidalgo is leaning toward one path or another?
D: The indecisiveness is palpable. Elected officials in Paris are seemingly waiting for Hidalgo to make her move. This stalemate could be politically damaging if it continues much longer. The left does risk losing momentum to opponents if they don’t present a clear and strong candidate swiftly.
E: Lastly, what advice would you give to Hidalgo as she navigates these decisions in the lead-up to the elections?
D: Transparency will be key for her going forward. She should openly communicate her intentions, whether she decides to run or step aside. Engaging her base, particularly the environmentalists, will also be crucial. The left needs to rally around a vision that resonates with the changing demographics and concerns of Parisian voters if they hope to retain control.
E: Thank you, Dr. Dupont, for providing such insightful analysis on this pivotal moment for the left in Paris! We appreciate your time and expertise.
D: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for Paris, and I look forward to seeing how it all unfolds.