Key facts
- Edouard Philippe launched his presidential campaign with a rally in Paris.
- He criticized the National Rally for perceived ideological inconsistencies.
- Philippe highlighted differences between Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella's economic views.
- The former prime minister proposed reforms in education, health, and public finances.
- He suggested changes to the state pension system requiring increased contributions from pensioners.
French presidential hopeful Edouard Philippe launched his campaign with a major rally in Paris, using the event to deliver a sharp critique of the National Rally, the leading far-right party. Philippe accused the party of being unprincipled and opportunistic, highlighting perceived contradictions in their platform.
Speaking to an estimated 5,000 supporters, Philippe characterized the National Rally as "socialist in the north, liberal in the south," and a party that claims to represent the working class while embracing wealthy lifestyles. He drew parallels between the party's perceived inconsistency and President Emmanuel Macron's "at the same time" refrain, suggesting they try to be two things at once without acknowledging it.
The rally comes ahead of a crucial Tuesday ruling on Marine Le Pen's appeal against an embezzlement conviction and election ban. If the appeal fails, her protégé Jordan Bardella is expected to become the National Rally's presidential candidate. Philippe pointed out the apparent divergence between Le Pen's historical support for the welfare state and Bardella's more free-market leanings.
Philippe, who polls suggest is best placed to challenge the National Rally, aimed to present himself as a responsible conservative capable of uniting the country. He acknowledged his project might be perceived as difficult, but stated it would require "effort, but fair, shared effort, spread out over time." He outlined his policy ambitions for education, health, and public finances, advocating for a more streamlined government and hinting at reforms to the state pension system that would require greater contributions from pensioners.
Addressing accusations of a lackluster campaign, Philippe adopted a more personal tone, discussing his upbringing in Le Havre and his experiences with vitiligo and hair loss during his premiership. He sought to connect with voters on a personal level, emphasizing resilience. Despite trailing in polls behind Bardella or Le Pen, Philippe has secured endorsements from figures like Maud Bregeon and Laurent Wauquiez, aiming to consolidate support amidst a crowded field of centrist and right-wing candidates.