Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has announced that she will not run for a third term in 2026, ending her historic tenure as the first woman to lead the French capital.
The Socialist leader, who has been in office since 2014, made the announcement in an interview with Le Monde published on Tuesday.
“I will not run for a third term. This is a decision I made a long time ago,” Hidalgo, 65, told the newspaper. She emphasized that the early declaration was intended to ensure a smooth transition for her successor.
Hidalgo also revealed her endorsement of Senator Rémi Féraud as her preferred candidate to take the helm of Paris’s municipal leadership. Féraud, a member of the Socialist Party, has yet to formally announce his candidacy.
A Decade of Transformation and Challenges
Hidalgo’s nearly decade-long tenure has been marked by sweeping changes and formidable challenges. Under her leadership, Paris has undergone a significant transformation, particularly in its approach to urban planning and mobility.
Hidalgo implemented a controversial agenda aimed at reducing car traffic and prioritizing green spaces, pedestrian zones, and bike lanes.
While praised by environmentalists and urban planners, her policies faced criticism from motorists and business groups who argued that they disrupted daily life and commerce.
The mayor also played a central role in Paris’s response to major crises, including a series of Islamist terror attacks, the devastating 2019 Notre-Dame Cathedral fire, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Most recently, Hidalgo has overseen preparations for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, which will bring global attention to Paris but also pose logistical and financial challenges for the city.
A Decision Rooted in Respect
Hidalgo stated that her decision to step aside was motivated by a sense of responsibility and respect for the city’s residents.
“Out of respect for Parisians, I wanted to announce it early enough and at a time that allows for a smooth handover,” she explained.
Despite stepping down as mayor, Hidalgo confirmed she would remain politically active after her term ends in 2026. She has not specified her future plans but indicated she would continue to engage in public service and political advocacy.
Legacy and Criticism
As the first woman to lead Paris, Hidalgo’s leadership broke barriers and set a precedent for female politicians in France.
Her administration focused heavily on sustainability and addressing the climate crisis, earning her international recognition but also sparking fierce debates domestically.
Critics argue that some of her policies, particularly those targeting car usage, were implemented too aggressively, alienating parts of the population.
Additionally, her unsuccessful bid for the French presidency in 2022, where she garnered only 1.7% of the vote, raised questions about her broader appeal beyond the capital.
The Road Ahead
With Hidalgo’s announcement, attention now turns to the upcoming 2026 municipal elections.
Her endorsement of Féraud signals her intention to maintain Socialist Party leadership in Paris, though other political contenders are likely to emerge in the months ahead.
Hidalgo’s departure marks the end of a transformative era for Paris. Her legacy, shaped by ambitious reforms and resilience in the face of adversity, will undoubtedly remain a subject of debate for years to come.