«An obvious and difficult decision»: Léa Salamé leaves France 2's '20 Heures' news after Raphaël Glucksmann's presidential bid

French journalist Léa Salamé will step down from her role as anchor of France 2's flagship evening news program, "20 Heures," after just one season. The decision comes as a direct consequence of her partner, Raphaël Glucksmann, officially announcing his candidacy for the 2027 French presidential election.

Salamé had previously pledged to withdraw from covering public service news if Glucksmann, the leader of the Place publique party, decided to run. She reiterated this commitment in February, stating during a parliamentary inquiry hearing that she did not want "the French people to have the slightest doubt" about her neutrality. Her final broadcast was on July 16, with her summer fill-in, Jean-Baptiste Marteau, taking over the interim role during the summer months.

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If he is a candidate, I will step down from the air. (...) I don't want the French people to have the slightest doubt.

Glucksmann formally launched his presidential campaign on Sunday, August 23, choosing TF1's "20 Heures" news program hosted by Audrey Crespo-Mara for his announcement. This move by Glucksmann triggered Salamé's promised withdrawal from the France 2 news desk, marking a significant shift in her on-air responsibilities.

Despite leaving the evening news, Salamé will continue to host the popular Saturday night talk show "Quelle époque!" on France 2. Reports suggest that France Télévisions is also considering offering her other broadcasting opportunities for the upcoming season, indicating her continued importance within the public broadcasting network.

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A decision that is obvious and difficult.