Overview
- He formally declared his March 2026 candidacy at Pau’s Stade du Hameau before about 120 people.
- Bayrou said he will head the “Nous aimons Pau” list in the municipal race.
- He highlighted his 12-year record at city hall, stressing what he called successes on security.
- The former prime minister (December 13, 2024 to September 9, 2025) faces criticism over holding national office while mayor and over a commission’s finding on the Bétharram violence case, which he disputes.
- Reported opponents include separate lists from the left, La France Insoumise, Rassemblement National, and Debout la France.