Former French PM best placed to beat far right in 2027 presidential race, poll shows

Maria Sandu

PARIS — Former French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is emerging as the strongest challenger to far-right figures Jordan Bardella and Marine Le Pen in next year’s presidential race, a new poll suggests. A survey published by pollster Elabe Saturday shows Philippe, whose reelection as mayor of Le Havre has helped bolster his presidential bid , separating himself from a crowded field of candidates to take on whoever represents Bardella and Le Pen’s party, the National Rally. Le Pen is the party’