Overview

• France2’s Complément d’Enquête broadcast an audio clip from Dati’s January 11, 2024 videoconference in which she allegedly tied her Culture Ministry post to Macron’s backing of her 2026 Paris mayoral bid.
• During the recording, Dati told around ten Les Républicains parliamentarians and arrondissement mayors that her appointment formed part of an agreement to present a single presidential majority and right-wing candidate.
• Paris council members from Les Républicains voiced alarm after the June 6 broadcast over the integrity of the upcoming municipal election process.
• The disclosures follow earlier reports that Dati received €299,000 from energy firm GDF Suez during her European Parliament tenure, intensifying ethical concerns.
• Critics warn the revelations could weaken Dati’s support among both Les Républicains and Macron’s presidential majority ahead of the municipal vote.