Overview

• Francis Szpiner, a senator and former mayor of the 16th arrondissement, announced his candidacy for the 2026 Paris mayoral race, aiming to secure the Republican Party's nomination.
• Szpiner's campaign highlights his opposition to Rachida Dati, whom he accuses of aligning too closely with President Macron's majority and failing to unify the right.
• Rachida Dati, the current mayor of the 7th arrondissement and a prominent contender, has received calls for unity from some Republican leaders but faces resistance from other party figures.
• The left is also fractured as the Socialist Party prepares for a primary between Rémi Féraud, backed by outgoing mayor Anne Hidalgo, and Emmanuel Grégoire, her former deputy.
• The Green Party will hold its own internal vote this month to select a candidate, with four contenders vying for leadership in the race to succeed Anne Hidalgo.