Toulon, France – The coastal city of Toulon is bracing for a closely contested runoff election after the first round of municipal elections saw Laure Lavalette, representing the Rassemblement National (RN), emerge as the frontrunner. The results, announced on Sunday, March 15th, 2026, set the stage for a pivotal showdown with incumbent Josée Massi in the coming weeks. This election is being closely watched as a bellwether of the shifting political landscape in France, particularly the growing strength of the far-right RN party.
Lavalette, a deputy in the National Assembly for the Var department, secured 39.40% of the vote in the first round, according to initial estimates published by Elabe as reported by Le Monde. This performance significantly exceeded expectations and positions her as a serious contender to unseat Massi, who garnered 30.5% of the vote. The outcome reflects a growing dissatisfaction among Toulon residents with the current administration and a willingness to consider alternative leadership, even from a party traditionally considered on the fringes of French politics. The municipal elections in Toulon are particularly significant as they offer a glimpse into the potential for the RN to gain control of a major city.
A Two-Horse Race: Lavalette and Massi Head to Runoff
The first-round results clearly establish a two-horse race between Lavalette and Massi. Michel Bonus, representing Les Républicains (LR), secured 16.6% of the vote, while Magali Brunel of the left-wing coalition received 8.1%. Isaline Cornil, representing La France Insoumise (LFI), trailed with 4.8% of the vote, and Jean-Michel Ghiotto of Lutte Ouvrière received 0.5%. The relatively strong showing of the left-wing candidates, despite not reaching the runoff, suggests a potential for strategic alliances in the second round, though the dynamics remain fluid. The outcome hinges on which candidate can successfully court the voters who supported those eliminated in the first round.
Lavalette’s campaign has focused on a platform of local engagement and responsiveness, promising to “re-provide a voice to the people of Toulon” through consultations and referendums. As reported by Linternaute, she has emphasized the importance of involving local committees, associations, businesses, and municipal employees in the decision-making process. Her campaign team has similarly highlighted the diversity of her list of candidates, representing various neighborhoods within Toulon, including Claret, Mourillon, and Pont-du-Las. Notably, Mélanie Auzoux, Miss Var 2025, has joined her campaign, adding a touch of celebrity appeal.
Seeking Support from the Right: Lavalette Courts Bonnus’ Voters
Recognizing the importance of consolidating support from the right, Lavalette is actively appealing to the voters who backed Michel Bonus in the first round. She argues that there is a significant overlap between her program and Bonus’s, and she believes that his supporters are unlikely to vote for Massi, whom she characterizes as representing the left. Lavalette’s strategy hinges on convincing Bonus’s voters that she is the best alternative to a left-leaning administration. This appeal is crucial, as the transfer of votes from Bonus could be decisive in the runoff election.
Hubert Falco, the former mayor of Toulon who ousted the Front National (now Rassemblement National) from power in 2001, has reportedly expressed his hostility towards the RN. However, Bonus has indicated a willingness to discuss potential alliances with Massi, even suggesting a possible merger of their lists. This potential collaboration could significantly alter the dynamics of the second round, potentially creating a united front against Lavalette. Massi, however, has remained tight-lipped about any potential negotiations, also receiving overtures from Toulon en Commun.
Left-Wing Disappointment and Potential for Strategic Alliances
The first-round results were a disappointment for the left-wing coalition led by Magali Brunel, who secured only 8.4% of the vote. Despite this setback, Brunel remains optimistic about her coalition’s ability to influence the second round. She has indicated a willingness to engage in discussions with Massi, aiming to ensure that left-wing values and principles are represented in the final outcome. The extent to which Brunel’s voters will align with Massi remains to be seen, but their support could be crucial in a close contest. André de Ubeda, a member of Brunel’s list, echoed her sentiment, emphasizing the importance of continuing to advocate for their values and program.
Other candidates, including Isaline Cornil of La France Insoumise (3.8%) and Jean-Michel Ghiotto of Lutte Ouvrière (0.5%), failed to gain significant traction in the first round. Their voters represent a smaller pool of potential swing votes, but their preferences could still play a role in the final outcome.
Massi concluded the evening with a brief address, emphasizing the importance of local governance and criticizing what she perceives as a disconnect between Lavalette’s campaign and the realities of Toulon. She asserted that Toulon requires a leader with a strong local presence, a commitment to listening to residents, and a sense of responsibility. Massi’s campaign is now focused on mobilizing her base and appealing to voters who are wary of the RN’s policies.
Key Takeaways
- Laure Lavalette of the Rassemblement National emerged as the leading candidate in the first round of Toulon’s municipal elections, securing 39.40% of the vote.
- Incumbent Josée Massi will face Lavalette in a runoff election, having received 30.5% of the vote in the first round.
- The support of voters who backed Michel Bonus (16.6%) in the first round will be crucial in determining the outcome of the runoff.
- Potential alliances between Massi and other candidates, including Magali Brunel, could significantly alter the dynamics of the second round.
The second round of the Toulon municipal elections is scheduled for March 22nd, 2026. The outcome will not only determine the future leadership of Toulon but also provide valuable insights into the evolving political landscape of France. The coming weeks will be critical as both candidates vie for the support of undecided voters and seek to consolidate their positions. The election is expected to be closely watched by political analysts and observers across the country.
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