Lisnard denies governing with National Rally

David Lisnard, a candidate in the French presidential election, denied claims that he seeks to govern with the far-right National Rally (RN) on Sunday, November 1. He stated in a post on X that his political approach is independent, emphasizing that his right-wing stance does not align with either the RN or the centrist "Macronists."

Criticism from Modem leader

Marc Fesneau, leader of the Modem parliamentary group, accused Lisnard in La Tribune Dimanche of planning a major alliance with the far right. He compared Lisnard to euroMP Sarah Knafo of the Reconquête party, which is linked to Éric Zemmour, and stated he would not include Lisnard in a potential primary for the right and center.

Lisnard challenges critics on primary

Lisnard indirectly responded to Fesneau, criticizing those who look for excuses to avoid participating in a primary. He suggested that some are avoiding the process rather than engaging in it, while also inviting Édouard Philippe, who has resisted the primary, to define his own political boundaries.

LR leader questions Lisnard’s clarity

Jean-François Copé, the mayor of Meaux and a member of the LR party, questioned Lisnard’s clarity on his stance toward the RN during an interview on BFMTV. Lisnard had previously supported a primary that included figures as far right as Sarah Knafo, but Copé suggested his position remains unclear.

Lisnard remains the right’s favorite

Despite a drop in his polling numbers, Lisnard remains the leading candidate among the right and center factions. He is expected to address the public in a segment on TF1's 8 p.m. news broadcast on Sunday, where he will likely clarify his position and strategy.