Gérald Darmanin Backs Édouard Philippe for 2027 French Presidential Election

French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has thrown his support behind former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe for France’s 2027 presidential election, ruling out a potential bid of his own as the country’s political right begins positioning itself for the race.

Darmanin, a prominent figure in France’s conservative and right-wing political camp, announced his decision in an interview with regional newspaper La Voix du Nord. He said supporting Philippe rather than entering the presidential contest himself was in the best interests of the country.

The justice minister pointed to France’s difficult political and social environment as a key reason for avoiding further divisions among potential candidates. He said the country faces significant challenges affecting French citizens and called on other political figures to rally behind Philippe’s presidential campaign.

Darmanin’s endorsement could strengthen Philippe’s position as conservative and centrist politicians prepare for the post-Emmanuel Macron era. Macron cannot seek a third consecutive presidential term under France’s constitutional rules.

Philippe served as Macron’s first prime minister after the president entered the Élysée Palace in 2017. He remained in the role until July 2020, overseeing the government during several major crises. His premiership included the widespread Yellow Vest protests that began in 2018, as well as the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The former prime minister has since built his own political profile and is expected to be a significant contender in the 2027 French presidential election. Darmanin’s backing could help Philippe consolidate support among moderate conservatives, centrists and members of Macron’s broader political coalition.

However, the French presidential race is expected to be highly competitive. Opinion polls published in July indicated that far-right leader Marine Le Pen could emerge victorious in the election, highlighting the continued strength of France’s nationalist right.

Those polls came despite an appeal court upholding Le Pen’s guilty verdict in a case involving the embezzlement of European Union funds.

With Macron unable to run again and political parties already preparing for the transition, Darmanin’s endorsement of Philippe adds further momentum to an increasingly important battle over who will lead France after the 2027 election.