French Political Sentiment in October 2025 Shows Rising Popularity for Extreme Right Ahead of 2027 Election
The October 2025 Ipsos-BVA political survey reports low popularity for Emmanuel Macron, rising support for extreme-right candidates ahead of the 2027 election, and heightened economic pessimism among the French.
- • Emmanuel Macron's popularity remains low at 19%, slightly up from September.
- • Sébastien Lecornu's popularity rises to 27% despite resignation, though 55% view him negatively.
- • Extreme-right candidates Jordan Bardella and Marine Le Pen lead with 33% satisfaction each for 2027 presidential hopefuls.
- • Economic pessimism is high with 88% concerned about the country's economy and 50% prioritizing purchasing power as a top issue.
Key details
The October 2025 Ipsos-BVA political barometer reveals a challenging political and economic atmosphere in France ahead of the 2027 presidential election. President Emmanuel Macron's approval rating stands at a low 19%, a modest increase of 2 points since September, indicating persistent public dissatisfaction. Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, despite his recent resignation, has seen his popularity rise significantly to 27%, up 11 points, although a majority of 55% still harbor negative views towards him.
The survey highlights a notable shift in public satisfaction favoring extreme-right political figures as preferred presidential candidates for 2027. Jordan Bardella and Marine Le Pen both lead with 33% satisfaction levels, closely followed by Marion Maréchal at 24%. This trend reflects a decline in support for more traditional right and centrist leaders such as Bruno Retailleau, Edouard Philippe, Gabriel Attal, and Gérald Darmanin.
Economic concerns remain at the forefront for French citizens, with purchasing power topping the list of worries at 50%, and concerns over the social system trailing closely at 44%. Economic pessimism is widespread, with 88% of respondents expressing a negative outlook on France's economic situation, and 67% worried about their personal finances. Expectations of further deterioration in purchasing power, rising public debt, and increased taxation contribute to this gloomy economic mood.
This sustained economic pessimism and shifting political preferences underscore the complex challenges facing France as it approaches the 2027 elections, highlighting a landscape marked by public dissatisfaction with incumbent leadership and increasing appeal of extreme-right alternatives. The Ipsos-BVA barometer thus provides a snapshot of evolving public opinion amidst significant economic uncertainty and political change.