French presidential hopefuls clash in first debate ahead of 2027 election

Seven leading French candidates from across the spectrum debated at a MEDEF event in Paris eight months before the 2027 presidential vote. Marine Le Pen’s National Rally pitched a 125‑billion‑euro plan; Jean-Luc Mélenchon urged higher wages and criticized tax giveaways, while former prime ministers Édouard Philippe and Gabriel Attal defended debt policies. Raphaël Glucksmann participated and signaled a left‑wing primary, underscoring concerns that the crowded field could split the moderate vote in the first round.