Xavier Bertrand to Announce Independent 2027 French Presidential Bid by Year‑End

Xavier Bertrand, president of the Hauts‑de‑France region and former minister, said he will formally declare his candidacy for the 2027 French presidential election before the end of the year. He plans to run as an independent, aiming to unite right‑wing and centrist voters.

Bertrand indicated that his campaign organization is already underway, with fundraising, the collection of the required 500 elected‑official endorsements, and a network of local supporters through his movement Nous France. He referenced his previous attempt to secure the Republican nomination in 2022, which ended at the first‑round primary, and said lessons from that experience are guiding his current preparations.

The announcement is expected to come after the Christmas and New Year holidays, when public discussion about the next president intensifies. Bertrand emphasized a focus on territorial governance, social policies for families and workers, and a “Gaullist” right that avoids alliances with extremist parties.