At their annual general meeting, the ecologists of Lille-Lomme-Hellemmes have designated, once again, Stéphane Baly as head of the list for municipal election in 2026. A possible revenge for the man who failed by a hair’s breadth four years ago, and who now has the task of “carrying an open, rallying list, with the ambition of embodying a majority force for transforming the city”.
In 2020, Lille’s mayoralty almost fell to the ecologists under the impetus of Lille Verte candidate Stéphane Baly. He came second in the first round, just behind Martine Aubrythe ecologist had managed the feat of gaining over 5,000 votes in the second round. An incredible comeback, but not enough, as the Socialist was finally re-elected with a lead of just 227 votes.
Uncertain opponents
But in 2026, the situation will no longer be the same. Firstly, because Martine Aubry will not be standing for re-election. This raises the question of her succession, to ensure that the PS does not lose its stronghold in Lille. For the moment, there’s nothing official on this front, although the names of Audrey Linkenheld and Arnaud Deslandes are on everyone’s lips. Not forgetting the self-proclaimed outsider candidate of the PS, MP Roger Vicot.
On the presidential side, Violette Spillebout, also a member of parliament, will be running again. Although she came third in 2020, with a 19-point gap to Stéphane Baly, she could spring a surprise on a misunderstanding.
On the other hand, at LFI, there’s no doubt that someone will step up to the plate, but who? At the time, it was Julien Poix who was designated head of the list. Except that in the meantime, he has been elected as a member of parliament and, more importantly, has slammed the door on LFI, stating that he “no longer finds himself” in a party that doesn’t respect “dissenting voices”.