Louis Sarkozy, son of the former president, is running for mayor of Menton with a bold strategy blending on-the-ground efforts and social media. In a city favorable to the National Rally, the 28-year-old candidate relies on self-deprecation and direct interactions to establish himself. His campaign, featuring anecdotes and quotes, aims to grab attention despite criticisms.
Louis Sarkozy, 28 years old and son of former President Nicolas Sarkozy, is campaigning for the mayoralty of Menton in the Alpes-Maritimes. This city, known for its strong support for the National Rally, poses a challenging ground for the candidate, who adopts a flamboyant approach.
On a mid-December Saturday, during a visit to the local Intermarché, Louis Sarkozy engages shoppers with humor: “Come to my office, there will be hot wine!” He adds laughing: “There will also be champagne. Another politician who lies! If one lie doesn't pass, you have to add more!” At ease on the ground, whether in the street, supermarket, or tennis club during the Licornes tournament, he speaks quickly, shares anecdotes, and quotes authors like Kipling, Chateaubriand, or Benjamin Constant. He even admits casually: “Sometimes, I invent them or self-quote.”
Facing mockery about his pretension, he responds with self-deprecation, telling a customer: “Vote for a tall dark man with green eyes and tons of charm.” Rebuffs and annoyed looks do not deter him. He likens politics to love: “In politics, it's like in love, either they reject you or they get enthusiastic. The worst is indifference.” This metaphor recurs in his speeches, highlighting his strategy to turn rejections into enthusiasm and counter apathy in a politically polarized city.