Presidential Candidates Engage Rural Voters in Aveyron Amid Rising Political Activity

In the rural French department of Aveyron, national politicians are intensifying efforts ahead of the 2027 presidential campaign to engage a historically neglected electorate. Gabriel Attal, former Prime Minister and presidential hopeful, officially launched his candidacy on May 22 in Mur-de-Barrez. Attal’s campaign strategy is focused on connecting with rural voters and countering the influence of the Rassemblement National (RN), which holds significant sway in these areas. To bolster his rural outreach, Attal visited landmarks such as the Viaduc de Millau and participated in a market stroll in Rodez, mirroring the rural campaign style of Jacques Chirac. Patrick Vignal, a close advisor, highlighted the political neglect rural regions have suffered and stressed the importance of renewed engagement beyond urban centers. Meanwhile, Florian Phillipot, former RN deputy leader and leader of the extreme-right group Les Patriotes, held a campaign meeting in Millau that attracted more than 80 supporters. This event sparked protests from activists opposing extreme-right ideologies, signaling a growing political mobilization in Aveyron as the presidential race gains momentum. The department has previously hosted important presidential visits, including Emmanuel Macron’s in 2017, underscoring its increasing political relevance.