As the 2027 presidential election approaches, figures of Macronism are seeking to emancipate themselves from Emmanuel Macron’s legacy without disavowing it. With divergent strategies, competing ambitions, and the potential for a primary election, the battle to embody the central bloc appears to be open and uncertain.
How can one not disavow a legacy to which they have contributed, without bearing the potentially burdensome consequences for the future? This is not the first time this dilemma has arisen: Lionel Jospin in 1995 after Francois Mitterrand’s two terms; Nicolas Sarkozy at the end of Jacques Chirac’s second term in 2007.
This year, this conundrum weighs heavily on all the Macron figures who would like to embody Emmanuel Macron’s succession, without taking on the most abrasive aspects of his nearly ten years in power. Bruno Retailleau, the leader of The Republicans who was once a minister in Macron’s government despite his harsh criticism, is certain that no Macronist will be able to successfully embody the “central bloc” in 2027. Or will they?
Leading the polls for the first round of the presidential election and emboldened by his re-election as mayor of Le Havre, Edouard Philippe thinks exactly the opposite. After his forced departure from Matignon in 2020, the head of Horizons has consistently emphasized that he was “loyal but free,” even going as far as to request the president’s early departure. The relationship between the two men started off cold but has gradually warmed.
However, Philippe appears to be biding his time instead of taking decisive action. A major rally was canceled and the long-awaited “comprehensive” program has yet to be revealed. Edouard Philippe likely hopes that “waiting it out” will eventually prompt The Republicans to join him. But is it that simple?
On the other hand, Gabriel Attal is taking a different approach. The former Prime Minister, who was sacrificed in the dissolution, has distanced himself from the president who gave him everything. This ingratitude is causing irritation among the loyal followers of the President, who Attal stated he no longer understands.
Eager to change the party’s name as one would change clothes, the leader of Renaissance is making multiple international trips, holding a major rally, and releasing a book—a necessary step on the road to 2027. In favor of a primary election unlike Philippe, Attal is also engaging in divisive issues such as the Alsace region and the Labor Day.
But Philippe and Attal are not the only ones vying to represent the central bloc in the presidential election: Gerald Darmanin, Bruno Le Maire—who is also releasing a book—Jean Castex, and Sebastien Lecornu could also contend. The dilemma is far from resolved.
