Socialist Primary Heads to First Round as Glucksmann, Faure Clash Over LFI

The Socialist Party primary to choose a joint left-wing candidate for the 2027 presidential election enters its first round of voting on Oct. 9-10. Five contenders are running, with the vote conducted electronically and results expected by Oct. 11. If no candidate wins an absolute majority, a runoff will follow on Oct. 16-17.

A final televised debate on Oct. 1 at the Maison de la Radio sharpened the rivalry between poll leader Raphaël Glucksmann and PS First Secretary Olivier Faure. The two clashed sharply over Gaza terminology and the prospect of an alliance with La France Insoumise (LFI). Glucksmann declared no agreement is possible with LFI, accusing the party of playing with antisemitic codes.

“What you are doing is obscene.”

Faure challenged Glucksmann on Gaza, reading the 1948 Genocide Convention definition to pressure his rival into using the term "genocide." Glucksmann retorted, "What you are doing is obscene," noting the ICC uses "crimes against humanity." The exchange highlighted strategic differences within the social-democratic camp.

Jérôme Guedj also attacked Faure for what he called a permanent "belly dance" with LFI. The organizing commission previously rebuked Ségolène Royal for calling Glucksmann an "intern," warning that excessive attacks could prevent post-primary unity. Two earlier debates have already taken place.