Presidential election
Mélenchon jokes about Epstein pronunciation at Lyon meeting
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During a municipal support meeting in Lyon on February 26, 2026, Jean-Luc Mélenchon joked about the pronunciation of Jeffrey Epstein's name, triggering widespread antisemitism accusations from political leaders across the spectrum. Former Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin condemned the remarks as an act of political irresponsibility, lamenting a sacrifice of the left. Mélenchon defended his words, accusing critics of inciting violence against La France insoumise.
One year before the 2027 presidential election, Robert Zarader, head of communication agency Bona fidé, believes France is moving away from absolute majorities behind the president. He suggests the possible arrival of a « ticket » era where candidates name their prime minister upfront. In a Figaro interview, he launches a collection on political communication.
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An Elabe poll for BFMTV and La Tribune Dimanche positions Édouard Philippe as best placed to face the Rassemblement national in the presidential runoff, with narrow wins against Jordan Bardella or Marine Le Pen. Jordan Bardella dominates the first round in most scenarios, except against the former prime minister. All other tested candidates lose to RN figures.