Bruno Retailleau, leader of Les Républicains, has officially announced his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election during an evening at the party's headquarters in Paris. Committed by duty to the race for the Élysée, he remains serene amid internal competition and the possibility of a primary. Several potential candidates are emerging on the right and in the center.
On February 13, 2026, Bruno Retailleau, leader of Les Républicains (LR), launched his campaign for the 2027 presidential election. After appearing on TF1's evening news, he addressed his supporters at the party headquarters, declaring with a smile: 'Friends, it's started. The rocket is launched.' The Vendéen, whose ambition has matured since his time at the Interior Ministry, plans to 'forge his path' despite expected hurdles in a camp teeming with potential candidates like Gérald Darmanin, David Lisnard, Xavier Bertrand, Laurent Wauquiez, and Édouard Philippe. Facing the possibility of a primary, Retailleau, committed 'by duty,' displays serenity noted by his allies. Senator Marie-Claire Carrère-Gée, who has known him since his arrival in the Senate, admitted: 'It's true, it's not going to be easy,' adding: 'I'll help him. [...] He's a good person.' Before his supporters, the candidate continued: 'There will be plenty of obstacles, but we will carry a project that fits…' This announcement signals the start of a fierce battle on the right and in the center, amid growing concerns within the LR party ahead of the vote.
