European Parliament: Éric Ciotti's Strategic Move to Advance His Protégé Guilhem Carayon

A coveted and strategic position on the LR party's list for the European Parliament is about to open up. This vacancy arises because MEP Laurent Castillo has been named the lead candidate for the RN-UDR list in the upcoming senatorial elections in the Alpes-Maritimes region.

Castillo, considered a close ally of Nice Mayor Éric Ciotti, was elected to the European Parliament in fifth place on François-Xavier Bellamy's list during the 2024 European elections. He later joined the UDR and formed an alliance with the National Rally.

While not widely known in political circles, Castillo, a professor of medicine in Nice, was propelled into an electable position on the European list by Éric Ciotti. This move reportedly drew criticism within LR, as it was perceived as a personal favor. Even while serving in the European People's Party (EPP), Castillo frequently appeared alongside the leader of the UDR, who is now an ally of Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella.

He is now set to be rewarded for his loyalty. It is widely expected that Castillo will be elected senator in September, benefiting from the votes of Ciotti loyalists. This development highlights the intricate political maneuvering within the LR party and its alliances.