Jadot Distances Himself from Tondelier, Criticizes Ecology's Political Role Ahead of 2027 French Presidential Election

Yannick Jadot, former presidential candidate and Paris senator, has publicly distanced himself from Marine Tondelier, head of the Ecologists party and declared candidate for the 2027 French presidential election. While Jadot acknowledges Tondelier's "extraordinary work," he criticizes her current political line and the broader role ecology plays within the French left's political struggle.

Jadot argues ecology should not be reduced to a "couple's therapist" mediating between factions on the left, specifically citing the tension between the Insoumis and socialists. He expressed dissatisfaction with ecology being relegated to a facilitator role rather than a distinct political force shaping the agenda. Jadot also firmly ruled out supporting Jean-Luc Mélenchon if he won the left primary, describing it as a "no-go."

Tondelier, meanwhile, is positioning herself as a serious contender for the presidency, aiming to secure her party's official nomination by early December. She is optimistic about winning both the left and Ecologist primary, with the rules for this primary expected by year-end. She believes there is a viable pathway for a left-ecologist coalition to succeed in 2027.

Jadot, who does not currently plan to run again but has not completely ruled out candidacy, is waiting to see who emerges as candidates and what political offers are presented. He insists on ecology having a strong agenda influencing key political debates on factories, housing, climate, and agriculture.

This divergence between Jadot and Tondelier highlights tensions within the French ecological movement about strategy and identity amid the approaching 2027 presidential race. The contrast underscores broader questions on ecology's role in French left politics and its pursuit of influence beyond factional mediation.