Éric Zemmour, the far‑right writer and former presidential candidate, announced on BFMTV that he will stand for the French presidency in 2027, according to a broadcast on the channel. The statement, confirmed by multiple news services, marks the first formal entry of the polarising figure into the next election cycle.
Announcement and Immediate Reactions
Zemmour, who garnered roughly 7% of the vote in the 2022 election, declared his intent during a live interview on the BFMTV network. He told the host that he would be a "candidate" in the 2027 race, a claim reported by BFM and echoed by Anadolu Agency via its UA.NEWS feed.
"I will be a candidate in 2027," Zemmour said on BFMTV.
The announcement was met with swift commentary from political analysts, who noted that Zemmour’s brand of nationalist rhetoric and his history of legal convictions for hate speech could both energise a loyal base and alienate moderate voters. No other parties have officially responded at the time of writing.
Implications for the 2027 Race
France’s presidential election, scheduled for April 2027, is expected to feature a wide spectrum of contenders, from the incumbent centrist government to the traditional left‑wing and right‑wing parties. Zemmour’s entry re‑introduces a candidate who previously positioned himself as an outsider challenging the political establishment.
Experts suggest that Zemmour’s candidacy could fragment the right‑hand vote, potentially drawing support away from mainstream right parties such as Les Républicains and the National Rally. His platform, which emphasizes strict immigration controls, cultural conservatism, and “French identity,” resonates with a segment of the electorate that feels disenfranchised by globalisation and EU policies.
Historically, Zemmour’s 2022 campaign was notable for its use of social media and provocative statements, which kept him in the public eye despite legal setbacks. His 2027 run will likely test whether his brand of rhetoric retains relevance in a political landscape that may have shifted in response to economic challenges and evolving public opinion on climate and security issues.
While Zemmour has not yet detailed a policy programme, his past publications and speeches indicate a continued focus on reducing immigration, reinforcing law‑and‑order measures, and revising French secularism laws. Observers will watch closely how his platform adapts to new domestic concerns, such as pension reforms and the aftermath of recent protests.
The next few months will see the formal registration of candidates, coalition negotiations, and the unveiling of campaign strategies. Zemmour’s early declaration gives him a head start in fundraising and media positioning, but it also opens him to scrutiny from both the judiciary and political opponents. As the 2027 election draws nearer, his candidacy will be a barometer for the strength of far‑right sentiment in France and its impact on the broader European political climate.
