In 2024, France was the stage for numerous political developments. Nice was no exception. Between legislative elections, local reshuffles, and party reorganization, the political scene on the French Riviera experienced an intense year. Here is a look back at the main events.
The first major event of the year: the legislative elections. In July, they confirmed the dominance of the Republicans (LR) and the National Rally (RN) in the Alpes-Maritimes. Out of the nine constituencies, six elected candidates from this dominant right-wing faction. Three RN deputies had already been elected in the first round: Christelle d’Intorni, Alexandre Masson, and Bryan Masson.
Éric Ciotti, representing the LR/RN Union, retained his seat in the 1st constituency. He received 45.14% of the votes against Olivier Salerno (NFP) and Graig Monetti. Alexandra Martin (LR) and Michèle Tabarot (LR) were also reelected in the 8th and 9th constituencies, respectively, after close races with RN candidates. Lionel Tivoli (RN), on the other hand, won the 2nd constituency with a large majority of 63.73% of the votes.
Political Reconfigurations and Local Reshuffles
Éric Ciotti made headlines at the start of the political season by leaving the Republicans on September 22. Disagreeing with the party line, he founded the Union of Rights for the Republic (UDR). Meanwhile, Christian Estrosi, the mayor of Nice, strengthened his control over local institutions. Reelected as president of the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis in July, he also carried out a reshuffle within his municipal teams in February.
Local figures also took on national responsibilities. Philippe Pradal, former mayor of Nice, was appointed national secretary in charge of immigration issues within the party Horizons, led by Édouard Philippe.
Lastly, Marion Maréchal, with her new party Identité Libertés (IDL), attracted personalities like Jean Moucheboeuf and Philippe Vardon, figures of the local right.
The year 2024 was marked by a significant reorganization on the right and a repositioning of local actors on national issues. Nice remains a laboratory for political trends, where the lines for future elections are being drawn.