French ex-PM Philippe rules out centre-right primary contest
Édouard Philippe declines to participate in a proposed primary to select a unified centre-right presidential candidate.
At a glance
- Philippe ruled out participating in a centre-right primary
- Attal had proposed organising a primary to select one centre-right candidate
- Both men are presidential candidates from the centre-right
Édouard Philippe, a former Prime Minister and presidential candidate, has rejected competing in a primary election. The decision follows a proposal made by rival Gabriel Attal to hold a vote to determine a single centre-right candidate for the presidential race.
Philippe's rejection comes as centre-right political figures consider ways to consolidate their support ahead of the election.
Why it matters
The centre-right's ability to unite behind a single candidate could affect the presidential election outcome.
Original reporting
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