The campaign for the Paris municipal elections is gaining momentum. The latest polls indicate a lead for socialist Emmanuel Grégoire in the first round, though his position in a potential runoff remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Rachida Dati, the main rival from the center-right camp, has categorically ruled out the possibility of forming an electoral alliance with Sarah Knafo, representing the Reconquête party, which significantly impacts the balance of power on the right side of the political spectrum.

Grégoire's Dominance in Polls

The socialist candidate leads in the first round, supported by left-wing authorities such as Lionel Jospin.

Dati Rejects the Far Right

The Minister of Culture ruled out any cooperation with Sarah Knafo, dividing votes on the right.

Free School Canteens

A key electoral promise by Emmanuel Grégoire aimed at the poorest residents of Paris.

The race for the Paris mayoral seat in 2026 is entering a decisive phase, and the latest public opinion polls shed new light on the preferences of the French capital's residents. Emmanuel Grégoire, the former deputy to current mayor Anne Hidalgo, has solidified his position as the leader in the first round of voting. His campaign gained additional momentum thanks to the official endorsement he received from former Prime Minister Lionel Jospin. Grégoire is trying to attract voters with specific social promises, the most prominent being a pledge to introduce completely free meals in school canteens for children from the poorest families. This strategy aims to consolidate the left-wing electorate ahead of an expected tough battle in the second round. For decades, municipal elections in Paris have served as a barometer of political sentiment across France, often setting trends ahead of presidential elections.The situation on the center-right and right is becoming increasingly tense. Rachida Dati, the current Minister of Culture and the main candidate from the presidential camp and the right, finds herself in a difficult position. Although she maintains second place in the polls, she must contend with the growing activity of Sarah Knafo from the Reconquête party. Dati has repeatedly and categorically stated that no agreement or alliance with Knafo is possible, calling such an option ruled out. This decision is interpreted as an attempt to protect her moderate image and distance herself from radical proposals that could deter centrist voters in Paris, even though a lack of unity on the right could facilitate a victory for the left-wing candidate. „Aucune alliance n'est possible avec Sarah Knafo.” (No alliance is possible with Sarah Knafo.) — Rachida Dati Analyses indicate that the Paris elections are becoming "mini-presidential elections," attracting the attention of national and international media. Polls suggest that while Grégoire wins the first round, the outcome of the final showdown with Dati will depend on the flow of votes from Green party voters and the far left. Meanwhile, the media notes the phenomenon of "ringardisation" (making outdated) of Dati's image by the younger and more aggressive-in-messaging Knafo. The campaign's dynamics suggest that local issues, such as the cost of living and education, will intertwine with grand ideological politics, determining the capital's future for the coming years. Poll Before the First Round of Paris Elections: Emmanuel Grégoire: 26, Rachida Dati: 22, Sarah Knafo: 8, Other candidates: 44

Mentioned People

  • Emmanuel Grégoire — Socialist candidate for Mayor of Paris, leading in the polls.
  • Rachida Dati — French Minister of Culture, main rival to Grégoire in the Paris elections.
  • Sarah Knafo — Member of the European Parliament and representative of the Reconquête party, running in Paris.
  • Lionel Jospin — Former Prime Minister of France, who endorsed Emmanuel Grégoire.