French Municipal Elections 2026: First Round Results and Key Takeaways
The first round of French municipal elections took place on Sunday, March 15, 2026, across the country. Results are emerging from communes in the Rhône, Ain, Ardèche, Drôme, and Loire departments. This election cycle is particularly noteworthy due to changes in voting procedures in major cities like Lyon, and the shifting political landscapes in several key areas.
New Voting System in Lyon, Marseille, and Paris
This year, a new voting system, known as the PLM law, is in effect for Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Voters in these cities participated in three separate elections: for arrondissement councilors, municipal councilors (who will elect the mayor), and metropolitan councilors. This multi-layered approach aims to increase local representation and accountability.
In Lyon, Gérard Collomb, who has led the city since 2001, faces a challenge from several candidates, including Jean-Michel Aulas, Anaïs Belouassa-Cherifi, and Alexandre Dupalais. The previous election in 2020 saw a shift to an ecological majority under Grégory Doucet, who secured 52% of the vote and control of seven out of nine arrondissements.
Shifting Political Dynamics in Rhône-Alpes
Beyond Lyon, several other cities are witnessing significant political contests:
Vénissieux: A Historic Communist Stronghold Potentially Changing Hands
Vénissieux, traditionally a communist stronghold since 1944, may be on the verge of change. Incumbent Michèle Picard is seeking re-election, but faces a strong challenge from Idir Boumertit, who garnered nearly 65% of the vote in the 2024 legislative elections.
Vaulx-en-Velin: Youth and Left-Wing Competition
Vaulx-en-Velin, a city with a young population (half under 30), has transitioned from communist control to socialist leadership in recent years. The current election features three left-wing candidates vying for the mayoral position.
Bourg-en-Bresse: A Potential Shift in a Socialist Bastion
Bourg-en-Bresse, a historically socialist city, could see a change in leadership. Incumbent Jean-François Debat faces competition from candidates representing the Rassemblement National (RN) and Reconquête!, as well as a candidate from Horizons.
Oyonnax: A New Era After Long-Serving Mayor
Oyonnax is electing a new mayor after Michel Perraud, who served for 18 years, decided not to seek a fourth term. His first deputy, Laurent Harmel, is running as the candidate of the outgoing majority.
Annonay: A City at a Crossroads
Annonay, the most populous city in the Ardèche department, may be poised for a shift in political direction. Incumbent Simon Plenet is seeking re-election after a challenging first term, facing competition from Marc-Antoine Quenette.
Aubenas: A Right-Wing Bastion Facing Uncertainty
Aubenas, a right-wing stronghold in the Ardèche department, is electing a new mayor as Jean-Yves Meyer is stepping down after 25 years. Four candidates are competing for the position, including one representing the current right-wing majority.
Valence: A Tight Race with Security Concerns
The election in Valence is particularly competitive, with incumbent Nicolas Daragon facing challenges from candidates across the political spectrum, including the left and the Rassemblement National. Security concerns have been a prominent issue in the campaign.
Romans-sur-Isère: Addressing the Legacy of a Past Tragedy
Romans-sur-Isère is electing a new leader with the shadow of the 2023 Crépol tragedy looming. Incumbent Marie-Hélène Thoraval faces competition from Kristofer Banc, David Buisson, and Marie-France Grimmer.
Saint-Étienne: Navigating a Period of Transition
Saint-Étienne is seeking a new mayor following the resignation of Gaël Perdriau in December 2025. Eight candidates are competing to lead the city and the metropolitan area.
Saint-Chamond: A Divided Right and a United Left
Saint-Chamond, a city with over 35,500 residents, saw a shift to the right in 2014. The current election features a divided right-wing and a united left-wing opposition.
Firminy: A Battle for a Historically Left-Leaning City
Firminy, traditionally a left-leaning city, is witnessing a contest between the incumbent Julien Luya and former mayor Marc Petit, who was defeated in 2020.
Second Round on March 22nd
The second round of voting is scheduled for Sunday, March 22, 2026. The outcomes will determine the leadership of these key cities and shape the political landscape of the Rhône-Alpes region.
FAQ
Q: What is the PLM law?
A: The PLM law is a new voting system implemented in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, involving separate elections for arrondissement, municipal, and metropolitan councilors.
Q: Which departments are included in the Rhône-Alpes region?
A: The departments are Ain, Ardèche, Drôme, Isère, Loire, Rhône, Savoie, and Haute-Savoie.
Q: When is the second round of elections?
A: The second round is on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
