Relations between former President Nicolas Sarkozy and the Rassemblement National (RN) appear to be warming, as shown by Sébastien Chenu's interest in Sarkozy's book signing event. This rapprochement could erode traditional barriers among right-wing voters. Yet, the RN still aims to supplant Les Républicains.
Sébastien Chenu, RN vice-president in the National Assembly and close ally of Marine Le Pen, hesitated to attend former President Nicolas Sarkozy's first book signing on December 10 at the Lamartine bookstore in Paris. He wanted to have his copy of Sarkozy's new book, Un journal d’un prisonnier (Fayard), signed and join the queue with the former leader's fans. However, his duties held him back: he had to preside over a session from the Assembly's rostrum that evening.
Despite this, Chenu had already met Sarkozy tête-à-tête, and the encounter went well. The former head of state would have welcomed him warmly at the signing. This gesture highlights an unexpected warming between Sarkozy and the nationalist party.
This rapprochement raises questions about the future of right-wing voters. Analysis suggests it could break the last barrier preventing these voters from shifting to the RN. Nevertheless, the party of Jordan Bardella and Marine Le Pen has not given up its goal of making Les Républicains disappear, seen as a weakened rival.
In a tense political context, this emerging bond underscores evolving dynamics within French right-wing politics, where traditional alliances are gradually eroding.