Hollande told the press, “In an exceptional situation, an exceptional decision is required,” justifying this unprecedented move in French history. The former French head of state will run in Corrèze, asserting that the “situation is serious” with the prospect of a victory for the National Rally (RN), which won the European elections on June 9.
Hollande will run under the banner of the Socialist Party as part of the New Popular Front, a left-wing alliance formed in response to the rise of the far right in France.
This marks the first time in French history that a former head of state has run for legislative elections after holding the highest office. It is worth noting that French presidents automatically become members of the Constitutional Council after their terms at the Élysée.