Laure Lavalette

Laure Lavalette is a prominent figure in the Rassemblement National (RN) party in France, serving as a member of parliament representing the Var region. She recently ran for mayor of Toulon in the 2026 municipal elections. Lavalette's candidacy was highly anticipated, as the RN had long aimed to win the city. She led in the first round of voting, but ultimately lost in the second round to the incumbent mayor, Josée Massi. Massi's victory is attributed to a "republican front" strategy, where voters from across the political spectrum united to prevent an RN victory. Despite the defeat in Toulon, the RN saw some gains in other smaller municipalities, highlighting the party's ongoing efforts to establish a stronger local presence. Lavalette's failure to win Toulon is a setback for the RN, particularly given the city's strategic importance and the party's long-term ambitions there.