Arcachon Mayor Faces Investigation After Video Shows Threats and Insults Towards Rival

Yves Foulon, the re-elected mayor of Arcachon, France, is under investigation following the release of a video showing him verbally attacking and threatening his political opponent, Vital Baude, during the first round of municipal elections on March 15, 2026. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from political figures, with some calling for his resignation.

Video Reveals Explicit Threats

The video, published by the online media outlet Vakita, captures Foulon directing a barrage of insults at Baude in front of a polling station. According to reports from RTL and Charente Libre, Foulon used vulgar language and threatened physical harm, stating, “I’m going to do everything to f*** you” and “If I could corner you behind the bins, I’d enjoy beating you up.” He also made threats against Baude’s family, saying, “It’s going to be terrible for you and your family.”

Official Response and Investigation

The Bordeaux public prosecutor’s office has confirmed the opening of an investigation into the matter, focusing on charges of threats, non-public insults, and violence, as reported by TF1 Info and Le Figaro. The video was filmed by an independent filmmaker documenting Baude’s campaign, who captured the exchange unintentionally whereas Baude was wearing a lavalier microphone.

Political Fallout

The incident has drawn strong reactions from across the political spectrum. Marine Tondelier, the national secretary of the Ecologists party, described Foulon as a “disgrace to the Republic” and called for his resignation, according to reports. Olivier Faure, the first secretary of the Socialist Party, expressed hope that Foulon would be excluded from his party due to his “thug-like behavior.”

Baude’s Reaction

Vital Baude, the targeted candidate, stated that while tensions are common in municipal politics, the exchange with Foulon reached an unacceptable level of violence. He expressed shock at the threats made against him and his family and confirmed he has filed a formal complaint. He told Agence France-Presse, “It’s dizzying and shocking to say that he would attack me and my family. This is what motivated me to file a complaint, we have to display who he is.”

Election Results

Despite the controversy, Yves Foulon was re-elected on Sunday with 66.51% of the vote, while Vital Baude received 20.45% and Laurent Lamara (RN) received 13.04%.