Ciotti’s List for Nice Municipal Elections Blends Right-Wing Allies and Former Estrosi Supporters

Nice, France – As the 2026 municipal elections approach, Éric Ciotti’s list of candidates is taking shape, revealing a coalition of former allies of Christian Estrosi, figures from the Rassemblement National (RN) and individuals from diverse political backgrounds. The list aims to present a united front on the right, but has faced scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest and administrative challenges.

RN and UDR Alliance

Benoît Kandel, the head of the RN in Nice, highlighted the party’s success in the city, noting that they achieved 32% of the vote during the 2024 European elections – securing one in three votes from Niçois citizens. Kandel, a former gendarmerie colonel and previously Christian Estrosi’s first deputy, is positioned as an eligible candidate on the list.

Ciotti has forged an alliance between his Union des droites pour la République (UDR) and the RN, a partnership that has already yielded success in the department, with the coalition winning six out of nine circonscriptions. This alliance is expected to continue into the municipal elections, with Ciotti leading the list and receiving the support of the RN.

List Composition and Notable Figures

Ciotti presented his list of 70 candidates on February 22, 2026, from the Tour Bellanda. The list includes individuals from legal, healthcare, and entrepreneurial backgrounds, with a strong representation from professions related to security. It also features former associates of Christian Estrosi and individuals who previously belonged to the UDI, as well as Jean-Marc Governatori, who led a left-wing list in the previous municipal elections.

Benoît Kandel is listed as the chief of file for the RN in Nice, appearing in the eleventh position on the list.

Administrative and Legal Challenges

The formation of Ciotti’s list was not without obstacles. He had to pursue legal action to validate the final list after the prefect of Alpes-Maritimes initially refused to register it due to a potential conflict of interest involving a former local business leader. However, the administrative court ruled in favor of Ciotti, stating that the prefect had exceeded their authority.

Jean-Pierre Rivère, the president of the football club OGC Nice, was initially promised the role of First Assistant but withdrew after concerns were raised about a potential conflict of interest by the Estrosi camp. Despite this, Rivère remains the head of Ciotti’s support committee.

Campaign Strategy

Ciotti’s campaign materials do not prominently feature the UDR or RN parties, instead emphasizing the slogan “Éric Ciotti, the best is yet to approach.” This strategy aims to present a unified message focused on Ciotti’s leadership and vision for Nice.