2027 Presidential Candidates Engage Businesses with New Economic Strategies

As the 2027 French presidential election approaches, key candidates Jean-Luc Mélenchon of La France Insoumise (LFI) and Jordan Bardella of the Rassemblement National (RN) are actively courting the business community to broaden their political appeal. This election cycle marks a notable shift, with political parties placing renewed emphasis on engaging economic stakeholders and crafting policies to gain their support.

Jordan Bardella has focused on meeting with CEOs of half of the CAC 40 companies, aiming to build credibility and distance himself from the controversial economic proposals of his predecessor, Marine Le Pen, such as the 2017 euro exit suggestion. Under Bardella's influence, the RN is adopting a more liberal economic stance, promoting tax reductions and incentives designed to foster business growth and favor corporate relocation.

In contrast, Jean-Luc Mélenchon is targeting small business owners extensively, proposing reforms that differentiate between small and large enterprises. His proposals include changing union representation laws to empower smaller business syndicates over the dominant Medef federation. This strategy indicates an effort to strengthen Mélenchon's grassroots economic support.

These developments come amid a climate of high public trust in business, with a Cevipof poll reporting 82% confidence from the French populace. Meanwhile, the Medef's proposal of a CDI Jeunes has catalyzed dialogue between social partners and political parties around labor market reforms.

However, economic consensus remains fragile. The current budget bill's formulation predominantly through party negotiations, rather than open consultation with economic and social stakeholders, has raised concerns about transparency and the potential negative impact of proposed tax increases on business competitiveness and employment. Experts have called for renewed concertation with professional organizations to ensure sound economic policies and avoid social conflict.

As candidates advance their economic agendas, the financing of social protection remains a critical and contentious topic that could shape voter sentiment and campaign dynamics in the coming months.