On Sunday, October 25, young Les Républicains activists gathered at the central market in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, in the Yvelines department, to distribute campaign leaflets supporting Bruno Retailleau. Among them was 23-year-old Anaëlle Reynès, treasurer of the party’s youth movement, who said the activists were fully behind their candidate despite a campaign struggling to gain momentum.
The reception in this traditionally right-wing stronghold was uneven. One woman who supported the Rassemblement National tore up Retailleau’s leaflet and told the activists that their candidate had no chance. Other residents were more receptive, although some expressed concerns about disorder and political tensions.
The operation, described by Reynès as a nationwide effort, is centered on the slogan “Restore order.” The message is presented as a response to the social mobilizations taking place in France this autumn. The young activists portray themselves as representing a quiet, working youth opposed to the protests and blockades.
Reynès drew a sharp distinction between what she described as “two youths”: one associated with disruption and violence, and another that wants to attend classes and is tired of blockades. She argued that the latter is the majority, even if it is less visible in public demonstrations.
The campaign illustrates the challenge facing Retailleau and his supporters as they seek to establish his candidacy among voters on the right. Even in areas considered favorable to Les Républicains, the activists’ efforts have produced responses ranging from open hostility to cautious encouragement.
Sources: Le Monde Politique.