First Female Mayor of Paris Confirms She Won’t Seek Third Term
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has revealed that she will not seek a third term in 2026, marking the end of her historic tenure as the first woman to lead the French capital. In an interview with Le Monde published on Tuesday, the 65-year-old Socialist politician confirmed that she had made the decision “a long time ago” and is ready for a smooth transition of power.
“I will not run for a third term,” Hidalgo told the French newspaper. “This is a decision I made a long time ago.”
Having served as mayor since 2014, Hidalgo’s leadership has been marked by bold and sometimes controversial changes to Paris, including measures aimed at reducing car traffic and expanding bike lanes. While these initiatives have been praised by environmentalists and urban planners, they have also drawn criticism from some residents and drivers.
Hidalgo’s time in office has not been without its challenges. She has navigated the city through numerous crises, including devastating Islamist attacks, the fire that nearly destroyed the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the global COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing preparations for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Despite these hurdles, Hidalgo has remained a prominent figure in both Parisian and national politics.
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In announcing her decision early, Hidalgo expressed a desire to ensure a smooth handover of power, offering her support to Senator Rémi Féraud as her preferred successor. “Out of respect for Parisians, I wanted to announce it early enough to allow for a smooth transition,” she said. “I will remain politically active after 2026.”
