Macron's 'non-aligned' figures refuse to back presidential hopefuls Philippe or Attal

A number of influential politicians within President Macron's centrist bloc are deliberately remaining unaligned as the contest for the presidential candidacy intensifies between Édouard Philippe and Gabriel Attal. Figures like Gérald Darmanin, François Bayrou, Yaël Braun-Pivet, and Bruno Le Maire are opting to wait, neither fully endorsing Philippe nor Attal, in what some describe as a "wild primary."

Yaël Braun-Pivet, the President of the National Assembly, stated on BFMTV that "now is not the time" to rally behind a candidate, emphasizing the need to "work and focus on the collective." Many within the presidential camp are reportedly declining invitations to campaign events, including those hosted by Philippe and Attal, who are preparing for major public gatherings.

One close associate explained that these non-aligned politicians do not hold personal animosity towards either candidate. Instead, they aim to maintain a position of independence, allowing for a potential "clarification" among the contenders or creating space for other political developments. This strategic ambiguity allows them to potentially negotiate better terms or position themselves advantageously as the election approaches.

This deliberate detachment highlights underlying tensions and strategic calculations within the central bloc. By not immediately joining either camp, these figures are preserving their options and potentially influencing the direction of the presidential race. Their stance suggests a complex internal dynamic, where individual political ambitions and strategic positioning are playing out against the backdrop of a consolidating presidential contest.