Raphaël Glucksmann wins primary

Raphaël Glucksmann, leader of the Place publique movement, won the first round of the social-democratic left primary with over 66% of the votes, securing a clear victory over his opponents.

Olivier Faure and others fall behind

Olivier Faure, the first secretary of the Socialist Party (PS), received just 14.46% of the votes, while Ségolène Royal obtained 7.62%, Emmanuel Maurel 5.92%, and Jérôme Guedj 5.83%. This result marks the first time since 1969 that the PS will not field its own candidate for the presidential election.

Glucksmann’s campaign focus

Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament, emphasized his candidacy as a break from alliances with La France insoumise, positioning himself as the "candidate of democratic left" for the 2027 election. He stated that the result shows a left that is "faithful to its values" can unite and govern.

Supporters and reactions

Carole Delga, president of the Occitanie Region, called Glucksmann’s victory "clear and decisive" and pledged support for his campaign focused on social justice and sustainable growth. Olivier Faure, despite his defeat, acknowledged the outcome and called for unity, stating that "we will win this presidential election by a united left."

Criticisms and calls for unity

Some critics, like Marine Tondelier of the Écologistes, criticized Glucksmann’s stance as a "choice of retreat" by refusing alliances with broader left and ecological forces. Others, like Jonathan Bocquet and Cédric Van Styvendael, emphasized the need for a "broad, coherent and credible coalition" to ensure a successful campaign against the far right.

Historical comparisons

Ségolène Royal noted that this is the first time the PS does not have a candidate "stamped as such," comparing it to the 1965 situation when François Mitterrand ran outside the SFIO. The Socialist Party’s role in supporting Glucksmann, despite his outsider status, has been noted as a significant development in the party's history.