Controversies and Challenges Mar Municipal Elections Shake France's 2026 Campaigns

The 2026 municipal elections in France are marked by significant controversies and internal strife across various parties and regions.

In Saint-Sébastien-sur-Loire, the campaign of incumbent Mayor Thomas Boucher is grappling with fallout from the conviction of former mayor and senator Joël Guerriau, sentenced to four years in prison for drugging MP Sandrine Josso. Benoît Kerrain, Guerriau’s ex-advisor, became a divisive figure after rejoining Boucher’s team. In response, Boucher announced the removal of public plaques honoring Guerriau and ultimately cut ties with Kerrain amid calls from the left-wing opposition for a full break from Guerriau's legacy.

Meanwhile, Les Ecologistes, led by Marine Tondelier, face unexpected internal dissent as several members abandon the party to align with La France insoumise (LFI) lists, citing disagreement with the party’s predominant alliance with the Socialist Party. Over 400 members criticized the leadership for sidelining LFI and undermining a united progressive front.

In Gironde, a false deforestation rumor circulating in the village of Teich stirred local tensions. Mayor Karine Desmoulin denied claims of planned deforestation for commercial development, refuting the accusations as false and emphasizing the need for an honest campaign. The municipality filed a complaint for public property damage and defamation.

In Paris, the municipal race intensifies as right-wing candidate Rachida Dati vies to regain the crucial youth vote amid a tight contest with her opponent Grégoire. Polls suggest a near tie, with the youth electorate proving pivotal and challenging for traditional right-wing support.

These developments highlight the complex challenges and frictions shaping France’s municipal elections in 2026, underscoring disputes over leadership, party alliances, misinformation, and voter engagement.