François Patriat, Longtime Macron Ally and Former Socialist Minister, Dies at 83

François Patriat, a respected figure in French politics and a dedicated ally of President Emmanuel Macron, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 83. A veterinarian from Burgundy, Patriat's political journey began with his joining the Socialist Party in 1974. Over the decades, he held multiple mandates starting in the 1980s and served as the senator for Côte-d’Or since 2008.

Notably, Patriat was the president of the RDPI (Renaissance) group in the Senate from 2017, underscoring his key role within Macron’s political circle. His recent health challenges included a serious bicycle accident in July 2026, which led to his hospitalization. Despite his condition, he remained a prominent and loyal supporter of Macron throughout his career.

His death marks the loss of a significant political figure who bridged socialist roots with Macron's centrist movement, reflecting the evolving landscape of French politics over recent decades.