Presidency of the Republicans: what strategy for Laurent Wauquiez?

Alexandre Chauveau, edited by Solène Leroux 06:47, May 20, 2022

Who to succeed Christian Jacob after the legislative elections?

Several names are regularly cited, such as Julien Aubert, Rachida Dati or even Aurélien Pradié, but the most credible hypothesis leads to Laurent Wauquiez.

The president of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region remains just as discreet in the media, but will play his part, when the time comes, in the reconstruction of his political family.

If officially, he takes the time for reflection, he is preparing for a candidacy for the presidency of the Republicans on a clear straight line: firmness on the sovereign level, rigor in the use of public money, reform of the social system .

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It does not matter if this is not unanimous, moreover, the president of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region does not intend to derogate from it, even if it means facing new departures within the party.

Laurent Wauquiez knows that he should be able to count on the support of several executives, Bruno Retailleau or Éric Ciotti in particular, and that his line is the majority among members.

2027 in sight

But before that, there are the legislative elections, which are essential for the Republicans.

Even if Laurent Wauquiez follows them closely, the results should not have a major impact on his thinking.

Clearly, he could as well be a candidate in the event of a good score for the right (between 50 and 80 deputies), as in the event of another big setback for LR in the Assembly.

"If the party really ends up on the ground, it can even push him to go," says those around him.

In the meantime, Laurent Wauquiez observes the evolution of the political landscape.

"He is patient and will choose his moment," say his relatives, for whom the presidency of the party must serve as a springboard for a presidential candidacy in 2027.