Tarn-et-Garonne Legislative Elections Heat Up Amid Shifting Alliances

As the partial legislative elections in Tarn-et-Garonne's first constituency approach, the political landscape is increasingly dynamic with new candidates and strategic alliances coming to the forefront. Initially, candidates Marie-Claude Berly and Pierre-Henri Carbonnel drew attention with a campaign poster displaying the logos of the Union of the Right for the Republic (UDR) and the National Rally (RN). However, they soon removed these logos, opting instead for a more generalized branding as 'Union of the Right', in a move interpreted as an attempt to ease voter concerns about the alliance's implications.

Romain Lopez, the RN mayor of Moissac, voiced support for the collaboration, emphasizing the necessity for clarity in their electoral campaign. The candidacy of Bernard Pécou, who announced his intention to run for the LR party nomination at the last moment, caught many by surprise as he competes against Pascal Ellul, a competitor supported by local senator. This unexpected entry illustrates the evolving strategies within the local LR party.

Valérie Rabault, the former deputy for the constituency, endorses Cathie Bourdoncle, highlighting her focus on pressing local issues such as health care, water resource management, and housing. Rabault criticized the ongoing disputes among right-leaning factions, portraying Bourdoncle as the candidate who genuinely aims to address the constituents’ needs amidst the political discord.

As the campaign intensifies, the UDR and RN's alliance seems poised to influence not just this election but potentially set the stage for municipal elections in 2026. Meanwhile, the current majority in Montauban wrestles with internal divisions that may affect how they align heading into the election.