Paris
The party founded by President Jacques Chirac nominated Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy for president this week—without Chirac’s endorsement. Sarkozy was the unopposed choice of the center-right Popular Movement, which Chirac started in 2002 after his Rally for the Republic party collapsed amid financial scandal. Chirac, though, is no fan of Sarkozy, and considers him obnoxious and divisive. Chirac didn’t even show up at the party conference to preside over the nomination. Sarkozy is set to face Socialist Ségolène Royal in the presidential election this spring—a contest the French are already calling Sarko vs. Ségo. Chirac, 74, says he’s “still thinking” about running for a third term, this time as an independent.
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.