Socialist Lawmaker Guedj Open to Supporting LFI Candidate Against RN in Municipal Elections

Paris, France – In a surprising turn of events, French Socialist Party (PS) lawmaker Jérôme Guedj has stated he would support a candidate from La France Insoumise (LFI) over a candidate from the Rassemblement National (RN) in upcoming municipal elections. This declaration comes amidst growing tensions within the French left and follows a period of increasing criticism from Guedj towards LFI leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon.

Guedj’s Stance on the RN and LFI

Guedj, a candidate for the 2027 presidential election, has been vocal in his opposition to the far-right RN. He emphasized that he “refuses always, and will always do everything to prevent the extreme right from coming to power,” according to Le Figaro. Despite his disagreements with LFI, he explicitly stated he does not equate the two parties.

Criticism of Jean-Luc Mélenchon and LFI

Guedj has become increasingly critical of Jean-Luc Mélenchon and LFI, particularly following the death of Quentin Deranque, a nationalist militant, in Lyon. He has accused LFI of “connivance,” “fascination,” and “solidarity” with “violent movements,” as reported by Le Parisien. He believes Mélenchon has become a “repoussoir” (repellent) and a “boulet” (ball and chain) for the left, and that LFI is hindering the progress of a republican left.

Opposition to Alliances with LFI

Guedj has advocated for a clear break from LFI, calling for “no more alliances” with the party, even in the upcoming municipal elections. He expressed regret over what he perceives as a lack of clarity within his own party regarding this issue. BFMTV reported that Guedj believes a vote for LFI is “stérile” (sterile) and “voué à l’échec” (doomed to failure).

Moral Responsibility and the Arnault Case

Guedj also denounced what he called a “moral responsibility” within politics when collaborating with movements that resort to violence. This statement was made in reference to Raphaël Arnault, an LFI deputy, and the indictment of two of his assistants in connection with the death of Quentin Deranque. Le Figaro noted Guedj believes Arnault should consider resigning from his position.

Guedj’s Presidential Ambitions

Jérôme Guedj officially launched his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election in February, positioning himself as a voice for a “republican left.” He is the first socialist to officially enter the race. Franceinfo reports that this move is partly motivated by his opposition to LFI and his desire for a clearer ideological direction for the left.