Far-right French author and politician Eric Zemmour announced on November 10, 2026, that he will be a candidate in the upcoming presidential election, marking his second attempt to secure the nation's highest office.

Zemmour, known for his staunch anti-Islam and anti-immigrant rhetoric, stated his intention to run on TF1 TV, declaring his goal to "keep a France that is French." His previous presidential bid in 2022 saw him finish in fourth place.

This time, the 68-year-old Jewish author and television commentator has outlined specific policy proposals, including the expulsion of foreign prisoners and "foreign unemployed people" who have been out of work for over six months, even if they are legal residents. He aims for "two million fewer immigrants" in France.

Zemmour's renewed focus on immigration and expulsions comes in the wake of recent violent student-led protests across France concerning the cost of living. Many on the far-right have linked such unrest to immigrant populations.

The political landscape Zemmour re-enters is dominated by Marine Le Pen, the leader of the far-right National Rally party. Le Pen is widely projected to be the frontrunner in the April 2027 election, aiming to succeed President Emmanuel Macron, who will have completed his term. Zemmour's candidacy is expected to draw votes from the same base as Le Pen.

Meanwhile, Jean-Luc Melenchon, the far-left candidate for the France Unbowed party, has also been actively campaigning. He recently unveiled his program to a large gathering of supporters, amidst accusations that he may have encouraged the recent unrest. Melenchon's campaign has seen a surge in popularity.

The recent protests, which involved clashes with authorities in cities like Paris and Lyon, have put pressure on the government to address cost of living concerns. France's acceleration of a minimum wage hike was seen as an attempt to quell the unrest ahead of the crucial elections.

Zemmour's platform, particularly his hardline stance on immigration, is likely to further polarize the French political discourse as the nation approaches its 2027 presidential election, with established far-right figures like Le Pen and emerging left-wing contenders vying for voter attention.