Socialists to hold primaries Oct. 9-17 for 2027 candidate

France's Socialist Party (PS) has announced it will conduct primaries between October 9 and 17, 2026, to choose its candidate for the April-May 2027 presidential elections. The internal selection process, dubbed 'Choose 2027,' is designed to be inclusive, allowing not only party militants but also sympathizers to participate. Those wishing to vote can register on a common platform and cast their ballots electronically up to three days before the election. A nominal fee of 15 euros will be required for non-members, with a reduced rate of 10 euros for students and those exempt from taxes. The party aims to broaden participation beyond its core membership, seeking a candidate with wider appeal. Several figures have already declared their intentions to compete, including former presidential hopeful Ségolène Royal and current MEP Raphaël Glucksmann, who polls suggest is the strongest contender among the social democrats. The PS has a mixed history with its primary processes, having selected candidates who achieved varying degrees of success in past presidential contests. The party hopes this latest effort will yield a stronger candidate for the upcoming election.