Bernadette Chirac, Former French First Lady and Political Figure, Dies at 93

Bernadette Chirac, the widow of former French President Jacques Chirac, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, at the age of 93, her daughter Claude Chirac confirmed. Born Bernadette Chodron de Courcel on May 18, 1933, she was a pivotal figure in French political life both as the spouse of a president and as an elected politician in her own right.

Bernadette Chirac was unique among French first ladies, holding a political office independently—she served as general councilor for the Corrèze department continuously from 1979 until 2015. Her political career spanned over three decades, during which she was recognized for her sharp political acumen, notably predicting Jean-Marie Le Pen’s advancement to the second round in the 2002 presidential election.

Married for nearly 45 years to Jacques Chirac, their union was notable for bridging social backgrounds—Bernadette hailed from aristocracy while Jacques came from a middle-class family. Though initially uninterested in politics, she became a steadfast ally and advisor to her husband, significantly supporting his career ascent from local politics in Corrèze to the presidency of France.

Beyond politics, Bernadette Chirac was deeply committed to charitable causes, particularly the Pièces jaunes campaign, which raised funds for sick children. Over time, she reinvented herself as a popular public figure despite enduring criticism during her husband's presidency. Her philanthropic efforts notably improved her public image.

Her last public appearance was in June 2018, and health challenges prevented her from attending Jacques Chirac’s funeral in 2022. French President Emmanuel Macron paid homage, calling her "a great lady of heart."

Bernadette Chirac's legacy is marked by her dedication to public service, both politically and charitably, and her unique role as a first lady who maintained her own political mandate alongside her contributions to French society.