Raphael Glucksmann expected to enter France presidential race

AFP reported that Raphael Glucksmann, a European Parliament deputy and leader of the centre-left Place Publique party, was expected to announce on Sunday that he will stand in France's 2027 presidential election.

The 46-year-old commentator-turned-politician was expected to use a TF1 television interview from 1800 GMT to declare his candidacy. His partner, France 2 news presenter Lea Salame, was expected to step aside from her role to avoid a campaign conflict of interest if he stands; she had earlier said she would do so while saying she remained independent.

France's next presidential race is already crowded. President Emmanuel Macron cannot serve another term, while Marine Le Pen, Jean-Luc Melenchon, Greens leader Marine Tondelier, Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure and possibly former president Francois Hollande are among figures named as contenders or possible contenders.

AFP reported that polls put Glucksmann at 10% to 12%, below the level likely needed to reach a second-round runoff. The Socialists and Place Publique are planning an October primary to choose a single candidate.