Michel Barnier Wins Paris Legislative By-Election with 62% of Votes

In a decisive victory, Michel Barnier has successfully been elected as the deputy for the 2nd constituency of Paris, securing over 62% of the votes in the legislative by-election held on September 28, 2025. This win marks Barnier’s significant return to the French National Assembly after an absence of 32 years, having previously served as Prime Minister. He triumphed over socialist candidate Frédérique Bredin, who garnered 32% of the votes, following a first round where Barnier also led with 45%. Barnier’s win is especially notable as he becomes the only Les Républicains (LR) deputy in Paris, a city that has largely been under leftist and Macronist control since the elections of 2022.

The election was characterized by low voter engagement, with only about 23% of the registered 75,000 voters participating—a reflection of broader national political discontent, as Barnier himself highlighted in his victory speech. He credited his win to the trust placed in him by constituents across the three arrondissements encompassing the constituency: the 5th, 6th, and 7th.

Noteworthy endorsements for Barnier during the campaign included support from prominent political figures such as regional president Xavier Bertrand, who emphasized the necessity for a strong voice in the Assembly, and Paris mayor Rachida Dati, who acknowledged the success of the right and center in these districts.

Barnier, who has lived in Paris for 12 years, expressed gratitude towards voters for their support and reiterated his commitment to addressing their concerns. This victory not only brings Barnier back into a prominent legislative role but also signals a potential shift in the political landscape as he represents the right in an area experiencing notable leftist dominance.