Retailleau Refuses to Back Estrosi in Nice Mayoral Race, Shaking French Right

Days before the second round of municipal elections in Nice, a political rift has emerged with Bruno Retailleau, president of the Republicans (LR), refusing to endorse incumbent Christian Estrosi against his challenger, Éric Ciotti. This decision is reverberating throughout the French right, raising questions about party unity and potential alliances.

Retailleau Cites ‘Deleterious’ Campaign

Retailleau announced his decision on Wednesday, March 18, stating he would allow voters to make their choice “in their conscience.” He criticized the campaign as “deleterious,” specifically citing Estrosi’s “appeal to the left and to communitarianism,” according to Le Parisien. Despite having a national agreement with Horizons, the party of Estrosi, Retailleau felt unable to support the mayor’s re-election bid.

Ciotti Welcomes Retailleau’s Stance

Éric Ciotti, who secured 43% of the vote in the first round compared to Estrosi’s 31%, quickly welcomed Retailleau’s decision. He thanked Retailleau for “condemning the harmful campaign of Christian Estrosi and for withdrawing his support for the Macronist candidate,” as reported by Le Figaro.

Outcry Within Les Républicains

Retailleau’s move has sparked criticism within his own party. Xavier Bertrand, president of the Hauts-de-France region, reportedly commented, “What an indignity!” echoing a famous line from Nicolas Sarkozy, according to Public Sénat.

Internal Divisions and Accusations

The situation is further complicated by the presence of LR members on Estrosi’s list, including Senator Dominique Estrosi Sassone. She expressed surprise at Retailleau’s decision and defended Estrosi’s campaign, stating it was a “republican front against extremism,” Public Sénat reported. She too questioned Retailleau’s motives and requested an explanation.

Broader Implications for the Right

This affair in Nice is seen as a test case for the broader alignment of the right in France, particularly regarding potential alliances with the National Rally (RN). Retailleau has previously condemned Éric Ciotti’s alliance with the RN, referring to it as “the union of the rights,” L’Humanité noted. The incident raises concerns about a “variable geometry” approach to alliances, with differing stances in different cities.

Looking Ahead to 2027

The dispute also has implications for the 2027 presidential election. Some observers believe Retailleau’s move is a strategic maneuver ahead of a potential presidential bid, while others notice it as a disavowal of Senate President Gérard Larcher, Public Sénat reported. The situation underscores the ongoing tensions within the French right as it navigates its future direction.