Election date criticized by candidate

Bruno Retailleau, a candidate for the Les Républicains party, has criticized the planned date for the second round of the French presidential election, which is set for May 2, 2027. He argues that this date could lead to chaos due to potential demonstrations on the preceding day, May 1st.

Concerns over May 1st demonstrations

Retailleau expressed his concerns on October 19, stating that the date was a "bad date" due to recent nationwide demonstrations that unsettled several cities in France. He noted that the second round is set for the day after May 1st, International Workers' Day, which he believes could lead to public order disturbances.

Risks of holding election on May 2

Retailleau argued that holding the second round on May 2 would risk having demonstrations and public order issues the day before voting. He described the date as "completely contrary to the idea we have in democracies of organizing elections."

Government's choice of date questioned

Retailleau mentioned that the government and the president of the Republic had chosen May 2, a date he claimed was not advised by the majority of political parties. He further stated that the election is "the last chance" for France and that recent nationwide mobilization on October 17 highlighted the risks of holding the second round on May 2.

Official election calendar

The official calendar sets the two rounds of the presidential election for Sundays, April 18 and May 2, 2027. The second round will be held during the period of reserve, following the traditional May 1st demonstrations.

Government responds to criticism

In response to Retailleau's concerns, government spokesperson Maud Bregeon urged against polemics and stated that the government "knows how to manage May 1st." She emphasized that the dates were set according to the requirements of the Constitution and after consultations with all political forces.