Jean-Luc Mélenchon Launches His 2027 Presidential Campaign in Saint-Denis

Saint-Denis – 06/07/2026: Jean-Luc Mélenchon officially launched his fourth presidential campaign on June 7, 2026, in Saint-Denis. The chairman of La France Insoumise (LFI) deliberately chose the city as the starting point to emphasize his “New France” strategy, which focuses on identity, social justice, and diversity. Saint-Denis, known for its young and diverse population, symbolizes this societal change for Mélenchon.

The event took place at Place Victor-Hugo in front of the Basilica of Saint-Denis. Around 10,000 participants were expected, but estimates suggest that up to 26,000 people attended, demonstrating Mélenchon’s and his LFI alliance’s strong mobilization power. Numerous supporters and sympathizers expressed their support.

In his speech, Mélenchon sharply criticized the Rassemblement National (RN), accusing them of “supremacism.” In his view, the RN attempts to divide society along ethnic and religious lines, thereby destabilizing the democratic society. Mélenchon emphasized the importance of united resistance against this division.

With regard to the left-wing party landscape, he called for a clear agreement. “The primary phase is over,” Mélenchon declared determinedly, urging other left-wing political forces to unite under his leadership to jointly face the RN in the presidential election. This demand is part of his strategy to resolve the fragmentation of the left and form a united front.

Mélenchon also underlined the political significance of Saint-Denis by referencing the city’s mayor Bally Bagayoko, the first black mayor of the city and a member of LFI. Bagayoko has shaped politics in Saint-Denis in recent years, making the city a model for the envisaged “New France” policy.

Mélenchon was also supported at the launch event by renowned writers such as Annie Ernaux and Éric Vuillard, who in their speeches highlighted Mélenchon’s social policy demands and societal commitment.

The kickoff for the campaign in Saint-Denis marks a phase of intense mobilization. Mélenchon wants to score with his focus on social justice, identity politics, and the rejection of right-wing attempts to sow division. His campaign is thus aimed at the diverse electorates of the country, especially those who feel insufficiently represented by traditional parties.

With this kickoff, Mélenchon sends a clear signal: He sees himself as a central actor in the left spectrum and wants to enter the 2027 presidential campaign with a united left.