Marseille Mayoral Election Heads to Second Round: Payan and Allisio Lead

Marseille is poised for a closely contested second round of mayoral elections after incumbent Benoît Payan and National Rally candidate Franck Allisio emerged as the frontrunners in Sunday’s first round. The election marks a significant moment for the city, with the far-right RN achieving its highest-ever level of support in Marseille.

Tight Race Between Payan and Allisio

According to initial estimates, Benoît Payan, representing the left-leaning Printemps Marseillais, secured approximately 36% of the vote. He was closely followed by Franck Allisio of the National Rally (RN), who garnered between 34-35% Le Figaro. The results indicate a highly competitive race, with the two candidates separated by a narrow margin.

Vassal and Delogu Lag Behind

Martine Vassal, the candidate from the right-wing Les Républicains (DVD) and Sébastien Delogu of La France Insoumise (LFI) trailed significantly behind the leading pair, each receiving around 12-13% of the vote Challenges. This outcome suggests a potential quadrangle in the second round, though the gap between Vassal and Delogu is relatively small.

Rise of the National Rally

The strong showing by Franck Allisio and the RN represents a notable shift in Marseille’s political landscape. The party’s support has steadily increased in recent elections, from 19.45% in 2020 to 23% in 2014 Challenges. Allisio’s campaign focused on issues of security, economy, and the environment, with the slogan “Marseille en ordre” (Marseille in order).

End of an Era for Gaudinism?

The defeat of Martine Vassal, who succeeded Jean-Claude Gaudin after his 25-year tenure, is seen by some as the end of “Gaudinism” – a long-standing political influence in the city Challenges. Stéphane Ravier, a supporter of Franck Allisio, emphasized that voters have not forgotten the perceived failures of Vassal and Bruno Gilles during their time in power.

Second Round Outlook

With no candidate securing a clear majority in the first round, the election will proceed to a second round. Franck Allisio’s team has indicated a willingness to reach out to Martine Vassal’s supporters in an attempt to broaden their base Le Figaro. The outcome of the second round remains uncertain, promising a dramatic conclusion to the Marseille mayoral election.

The Kalshi market currently predicts Payan as the most likely winner Kalshi.