Mayor of Périgueux Steps Back Due to Exhaustion

Delphine Labails cites professional burnout and family strain as reasons for temporarily stepping down from her role.

Delphine Labails, mayor of Périgueux since 2020, announced her temporary withdrawal from office, citing severe professional exhaustion and risks to her health and family life.
The socialist politician, who also holds regional and local positions, described the role as demanding, particularly in rural areas with limited financial resources and high public expectations.
Labails highlighted the unique challenges faced by women in politics and the increasing complexity of regulatory and procedural requirements for local governance.
Her first deputy, Émeric Lavitola, will assume her duties during her absence, which is expected to last several weeks.
A recent study revealed that 83% of French mayors find their roles detrimental to their health, with thousands stepping down since 2020 due to similar pressures.