Building on the historic December union of PS, Greens, and PCF, Emmanuel Grégoire has won the backing of former Mélenchon ally Danielle Simonnet for the Paris municipal elections. In exchange for two council seats, she aims to mobilize working-class voters in eastern Paris and counter La France insoumise's Sophia Chikirou.
Emmanuel Grégoire, PS lead candidate and former deputy to Anne Hidalgo, continues to bolster his coalition following the left-wing parties' unprecedented first-round agreement. The latest addition is Danielle Simonnet, a recognizable ex-Insoumise figure in the 20th arrondissement's popular neighborhoods.
During door-to-door canvassing in a local social housing block, Simonnet emphasized unity against the right: “My only worry is that Rachida Dati takes Paris city hall. We need a left that defends working classes.” A resident echoed: “Oh yes, it's very important.” Simonnet, experienced in grassroots outreach, coached Grégoire on collecting voter contacts—a tip he quickly implemented.
Secured with promises of two Paris Council seats for her allies, this move targets social-issue voters and undermines Chikirou's LFI candidacy. It reinforces Grégoire's broad left alliance ahead of the March 2026 vote. Published January 7, 2026.