Jeanny Lorgeoux, mayor of Romorantin-Lanthenay since 1985, has announced his bid for an eighth term in the 2026 municipal elections. At 75 years old, the former Socialist Party stalwart cites unfinished projects and a passion for political engagement as reasons for his run. Despite past challenges, including a factory closure in 2003, the town has recovered under his leadership.
Romorantin-Lanthenay, a sub-prefecture in Loir-et-Cher with 19,000 residents, bears the marks of its industrial history, from wool blanket production to the later Matra Automobile plant. The factory's closure in 2003 led to the loss of about 1,000 jobs, severely impacting this working-class town along the Sauldre River.
Jeanny Lorgeoux, known as the “Lion of Sologne,” has led the town for four decades without a break. Once a key figure in the Socialist Party, he now disavows party ties and positions himself as an independent social democrat. After health setbacks, he declares himself “operational” and ready for the campaign.
“We have gotten back on our feet,” he states, highlighting reconstruction efforts after the crisis. He points to major ongoing projects and fresh ideas for his constituents. Having announced his candidacy last spring, a year before the March 2026 elections, Lorgeoux, who will turn 76, approaches the race with modesty: “It would be comfortable to think, after all this time: ‘Who will dethrone me?’ No, I am preparing as if it were my first time.”
For him, political involvement remains essential: “In the fight, I feel good. And working is also a way to push back death.” This upcoming election poses a challenge for the unshakeable mayor in a town that has transformed itself after hardships.