Édouard Philippe calls for right and center unity for 2027 election

Former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe has called for a unification of right-wing and centrist forces ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Speaking at the Terres de Jim festival, the leader of the Horizons party argued that electoral success for these groups in French municipalities is historically tied to their ability to run together.

Philippe addressed competition within his political sphere, noting that while candidates like Gabriel Attal of Renaissance and Bruno Retailleau of Les Républicains maintain legitimate political identities, a final responsibility to unite must be met. He responded to criticisms regarding the timing of the presidential transition, stating he is not in a rush and comparing his approach to the fable of the tortoise and the hare.

This follows comments from Gabriel Attal, who advocated for immediate political momentum, contrasting with Philippe’s more measured campaign strategy.