French vote tests polarised electorate with right hoping to win control of Paris

BBC News - WorldEN 5 min read 100% complete March 13, 2026 at 01:15 AM

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long article 5 min

France is holding municipal elections, a key indicator of political trends before the 2027 presidential election. The elections, held over two rounds, will test the willingness of mainstream parties to form alliances with far-left and far-right groups in an increasingly polarized political landscape. The mayoral race in Paris is a high-profile contest, where the right hopes to end 25 years of left-wing control. Incumbent Socialist Emmanuel Grégoire faces a challenge from Rachida Dati, a former minister from the right. Several other candidates, including those from the Macron-aligned center, radical left, and radical right, are also vying for a spot in the second round on March 22nd, making potential alliances crucial.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Anne Hidalgo 40% Nicolas Sarkozy 40% Sarah Knafo 50% Pierre-Yves Bournazel 50% Sophia Chikirou 50% France Unbowed (LFI) 50% Marine Le Pen 60% National Rally (RN) ×260% Rachida Dati ×370% Emmanuel Grégoire ×270% France ×280% Paris ×390%

Keywords

french elections 90% paris mayor 80% municipal elections 80% right-wing 70% political polarization 70% alliances 60% left-wing 60% national rally 50% marine le pen 50% rachida dati 40%

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BBC News - World

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90%

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french elections paris mayor municipal elections right-wing political polarization alliances left-wing national rally marine le pen rachida dati

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