Nice-Première: You are currently the head of a communication agency in the PACA region. How did you come to develop a political department?
Gilles Falco: First of all, it’s not by chance. My attachment to the political world developed very early and motivated me to pursue a master’s and a DEA in political sciences during my university years. As for the decision to take the professional leap, it stems from a genuine commitment on my part. While my approach in other sectors of my agency remains commercial, in the political arena, it comes from a desire to change things. In short, it’s a political act.
NP: If you view your action as a political act, can you advise a very wide range of politicians?
GF: On paper, certainly, since the primary mission of a political advisor is to act on the form. For my part, it seems incoherent to flit from flower to flower. This vision necessarily involves exclusivity regarding the people I accompany. My professional door is open to all who share the same conception of doing politics as I do.
NP: And what is it?
GF: In terms of substance, my preferences go indeed to initiative, order, good management of public affairs, and a social policy of support rather than assistance.
In terms of form – and this is my professional field – I prioritize the general interest over sectional interests, flexibility over rigidity, experimentation over conformity, action over rhetoric, explanation over imposition, anticipation of needs and problems over reactive measures.
NP: And what is the aim of your action then?
GF: One thing drives me: how to do politics differently and provide concrete solutions to the needs of all French people. My ultimate goal is to bring a new generation of political leaders to the French political scene, all driven by a common desire.
NP: What is it?
GF: The desire to act coherently, anticipate, conduct a pragmatic and realistic policy, remain available and close to citizens’ demands. Many talk about it, but few actually do it. The French now want representative politicians who can “embrace their time.”
NP: Aren’t you afraid of being labeled populist when you advocate for more simplicity and listening in politics?
GF: Simplicity does not mean simplism. And listening does not mean dictatorship of the street. Quite the contrary. A message that everyone can understand ensures a comprehensive understanding of matters. And a well-understood decision is, if not legitimized, at least accepted. What’s the use of presenting an unintelligible text, if not to create confusion? One may hope that misunderstanding will lead to adherence. It is rather a source of suspicion… and thus of distrust towards the political class. Speaking with and like fellow citizens is not lowering oneself, it is simply being perfectly aligned with them… ultimately being their representatives… isn’t that the primary function of elected officials?
NP: Finally, don’t you think you are being harsh towards the political class, and thus indirectly towards your potential clients?
GF: First, I have profound respect for French political leaders, especially knowing the demands and concessions that an elective function entails. However, I remain invariably uncompromising, as the importance of their missions demands.
Secondly, I remind you that my approach is not commercial, and I remain true to my working method, convinced that it meets the expectations of citizens.
