Public Trust in Mayors Remains High Ahead of 2026 Elections
Survey reveals high levels of public trust in mayors as 2026 elections approach, focusing on voter priorities and expectations.
Key Points
- • 69% of French citizens trust their mayors despite political challenges.
- • Key voter expectations include honesty (61%) and transparency (83%).
- • Public safety (43%) and environmental preservation (38%) are top priorities for future mayors.
- • The AMF has launched a campaign to encourage citizen engagement.
A recent study by the Centre de recherches politiques de Sciences Po (Cevipof) shows that 69% of French citizens trust their mayors as the 2026 municipal elections approach, despite ongoing political challenges. The research, commissioned by the Association des Maires de France (AMF), reveals that satisfaction varies significantly by community size—78% of residents in smaller communes (under 10,000 inhabitants) rate their mayors positively, compared to only 60% in larger cities.
While the overall mood is positive, with 73% of respondents grading the current municipal mandate favorably and 12% declaring it excellent, a segment of the population remains distrustful, with 15% expressing pessimism about the future. Notably, 58% would support their current mayors seeking re-election, indicative of the acknowledgment of their efforts during their terms. Trust factors highlight the importance of honesty (61%) and commitment to promises (50%), alongside an overwhelming 83% advocating for transparency in decision-making processes.
Citizens' expectations for their future mayors include focusing on public safety (43%) and environmental preservation (38%). As such, the upcoming elections are likely to hinge on candidates’ programs (84%), the performance of outgoing officials (79%), and the mayors’ personality traits (79%). In response to these findings, the AMF has initiated the campaign "Osez l'engagement!" aimed at promoting citizen engagement and solidifying trust in local governance. David Lisnard, president of the AMF, stressed the need for active citizen participation to strengthen local democracy.