Bruno Retailleau, a prominent member of the center-right Les Républicains (LR) party, is currently facing a tough time in his bid for the French presidency. Despite his efforts to secure re-election as a senator in the Vendée department, his campaign has drawn criticism from within his party. Some members are concerned that his focus on the senatorial race may be diverting attention from the broader presidential campaign. Retailleau's team, however, argues that the senatorial campaign has allowed him to better understand public sentiment and refine his policy proposals.
Retailleau has been actively involved in the presidential campaign since returning from vacation, participating in debates, attending events, and unveiling his education program. However, recent surveys show that his support remains low, with his poll numbers hovering between 6 and 9 percent. Some within his party believe he lacks visibility and clarity in his message. One LR member described Retailleau as "inaudible" at this stage, suggesting that his campaign has not effectively communicated his platform to the public.
Retailleau's campaign strategy positions him as a traditional conservative, drawing inspiration from François Fillon's 2017 primary campaign, but avoiding the more radical rhetoric of figures like Eric Zemmour. He has proposed constitutional reforms aimed at restoring the Gaullist model, a stance supported by figures such as Michel Barnier and Valérie Pécresse. However, some within his party question his ability to connect with voters, with one LR member suggesting that Retailleau may have made a mistake by leaving his position as Minister of the Interior.
Retailleau is under pressure from within his party, with some calling for him to step down if he cannot improve his poll numbers. Edouard Philippe, a former LR member, has urged Retailleau to consider an alliance for the legislative elections after the presidential race. Meanwhile, Hervé Morin, president of the Normandy region, has launched a petition for a primary to determine the center-right candidate. Despite this, Retailleau remains committed to his candidacy, stating that he will "go all the way to victory" and believes a win is possible. His campaign continues to focus on media presence and refining his public image to better connect with voters.
Retailleau has outlined a "colline après colline" (hill by hill) strategy, aiming to methodically address key issues such as education reform, pension policy, and constitutional changes. He has proposed ending the single-track college system and extending the retirement age back to 62, following the suspension of a reform that had set it at 64. Additionally, he aims to introduce a constitutional reform that would allow referendum results to prevail over the Constitution, ending the primacy of European law over French law and abolishing the right of soil.
Despite his efforts, Retailleau's campaign is struggling to gain traction. A senator close to him admitted, "He is doing his best, but we are stagnating. The mayonnaise is not setting." The campaign team remains optimistic, however, citing the example of François Hollande, who initially struggled in the polls before securing the Socialist primary. They believe perseverance and a clear message will eventually lead to success.
Retailleau's political space is constrained between Édouard Philippe, who has shifted his campaign focus, and Marine Le Pen, whose positions on immigration and security differ from those of the LR. Horizon, the party led by Édouard Philippe, has proposed a rapprochement with other right-wing candidates, but Retailleau has not firmly committed to such an alliance. Meanwhile, LR deputies are being urged to align with Philippe to avoid being forced to support a rival in the legislative elections.
The campaign faces uncertainty, with some within the party questioning whether Retailleau can continue his candidacy if he does not gain momentum in the polls. However, Retailleau remains committed to his campaign, believing that persistence and a clear message will ultimately lead to success.
Bruno Retailleau's Presidential Campaign Struggles with Poll Stagnation and Internal Party Tensions
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