First-Time Candidates Face Challenges Ahead of 2026 Municipal Elections
First-time political candidates express doubts and motivations ahead of the 2026 municipal elections in France.
Key Points
- • Violaine Pierre plans to run for mayor in Longueil-Sainte-Marie in 2026.
- • Her campaign is motivated by concerns over the rise of the Rassemblement National.
- • She describes politics as 'super ingrate', reflecting newcomers' frustrations.
- • The article highlights the challenges facing first-time candidates in France.
As the 2026 municipal elections in France approach, first-time candidates are expressing a mix of determination and doubts about their political journeys. Violaine Pierre, a 35-year-old social entrepreneur from Longueil-Sainte-Marie, is one of these candidates. Motivated by her desire to counteract the rise of the far-right Rassemblement National and other pressing global issues, she has chosen to step into politics earlier than she had initially planned. Reflecting on her decision, Pierre remarked, 'la politique est quand même super ingrate' (politics is indeed super thankless), highlighting the frustrations many new candidates face in this challenging environment.
Pierre's candidacy is fueled by feelings of impotence regarding significant events such as the re-election of Donald Trump and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Local concerns and a commitment to improving her community also drive her ambitions. The article emphasizes that her experience is indicative of a broader sentiment among first-time candidates facing the uncertainty of entering politics.