French Cities to See Electoral System Overhaul
Parliament approves PLM law, changing how mayors are elected in major cities.
France’s electoral landscape is set for a significant shift in 2026. A new law promises to change the way mayors are elected in **Paris**, **Lyon**, and **Marseille**, despite strong opposition and a bumpy legislative path.
Key Development
The **PLM** law, focusing on **Paris**, **Lyon**, and **Marseille**, has been definitively adopted by the French Parliament. The vote concluded with 112 in favor and 28 against, despite the Senate twice rejecting the measure.
Electoral System Changes
The approved reform seeks to strengthen the connection between voters and their mayors in France’s three largest cities. The previous system established in 1982 will be abolished, replaced by two distinct elections: one for borough councilors, and another for the municipal council elected city-wide. Voters will also elect officials for the Metropolis of **Lyon**.
Another consequence of PLM, not many people have spoken of it, we will probably have a far-right group (!) Will berred with the Lyon municipal council, 5 to 7 elected … 😰 😰 😰 😰 pic.twitter.com/11XwOz7GSO
– **Valentin Lungstrass** (@vationsstrass) July 10, 2025
Political Reactions
The new regulations for the 2026 municipal elections are now established, much to the dismay of certain elected officials, including environmentalists in **Lyon**. The latter group hoped to secure a victory in popular districts to increase their number of municipal councilors next year.
These changes may simplify pathways for candidates focusing solely on the central town hall of **Lyon**, as there will be a single list to manage.
Potential Consequences
As of 2023, only 34% of French citizens trust their political parties, indicating a need for reforms that can bridge the gap between voters and elected officials (Statista).
One potential outcome, according to **Valentin Lungstrass**, is the rise of a far-right group within the **Lyon** municipal council.
