Édouard Philippe Outlines Bold Presidential Vision at Lille Meeting

The former Prime Minister proposes rapid reforms, including Assembly dissolution and referendums, as he accelerates his 2027 campaign.

Édouard Philippe, leader of the Horizons party, has officially declared his candidacy for the 2027 French presidential election, emphasizing a reform-driven agenda.
At a Lille meeting with 1,600 supporters, Philippe announced plans to dissolve the National Assembly and hold referendums on key issues like pensions, budget rules, and administrative reforms if elected.
He criticized the current government's approach, particularly François Bayrou's retirement reform strategies, labeling them ineffective and disconnected from pressing national challenges.
Philippe's proposed pension reform includes three distinct regimes (private, public, and independent) and introduces collective capitalization to ensure financial balance.
The 2026 municipal elections are seen as a key test for Philippe’s Horizons party, which aims to strengthen its local influence and consolidate support ahead of the presidential race.