As the clock ticks down to the municipal elections in March 2026, former deputy Jean-Baptiste Moreau is weighing his options regarding a potential candidacy for the mayoralty of Aubusson. Although he has yet to make an official announcement, Moreau's recent activities suggest he is seriously considering the move.
Moreau, who served as the deputy for Creuse from 2017 to 2022, has been spending considerable time in Aubusson, engaging with local residents and building a team. He has been meeting with various stakeholders in the community, gathering insights and laying the groundwork for a campaign. “This isn’t like a legislative campaign; it requires a vision and sharing it with a team to build a project. It takes preparation and anticipation, so I’m working on it,” Moreau stated, reflecting on his approach.
One significant meeting took place with the current mayor of Aubusson, Stéphane Ducourtioux. Their conversation reportedly took a surprising turn when Moreau suggested that he could lead a list in the upcoming elections, effectively replacing Ducourtioux as the head of the ticket. This proposal caught the sitting mayor off guard and quickly ended the discussion between the two, highlighting the competitive nature of local politics.
Despite the intense political maneuvering, local sentiment appears mixed. Engaging Aubusson's citizens in political dialogue has proven challenging, as many are reluctant to voice their opinions. Those who do express themselves often seem skeptical about the political landscape, reflecting a general wariness towards new candidates.
Moreau, who hails from a family farm in Aulon, about 40 kilometers from Aubusson, is not a native of the town but insists that his connections to the region run deep. He has served on the municipal council of Montaigut-le-Blanc and has a history of involvement in Aubusson’s affairs, having brought the President of the Republic to the town on two occasions during his term. He also collaborated with Agnès Pannier-Runaché, the former Secretary of State for Industry, to secure recognition for Aubusson tapestries as a 'geographical indication,' a move that underscores his commitment to the region.
As for his timeline, Moreau has indicated that he will make his decision by the end of summer 2025. “After that, the voters will choose,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of the electoral process. His candidacy could reshape the political landscape in Aubusson, but until he makes an official announcement, speculation will continue.
In the meantime, Moreau’s presence in the community is palpable. He is not only meeting with local leaders but also engaging with the general public, taking the pulse of the town and listening to the concerns of its residents. This grassroots approach may serve him well if he decides to run, as building a strong local connection is crucial in municipal elections.
The dynamics surrounding Moreau's potential candidacy are emblematic of a broader trend in local politics, where candidates must navigate complex relationships and community sentiments. As the elections draw nearer, the atmosphere in Aubusson will likely become more charged, with candidates vying for the attention and support of voters.
In conclusion, while Jean-Baptiste Moreau has not yet declared his candidacy for the Aubusson municipal elections, his active engagement in the community and strategic meetings suggest that he is laying the groundwork for a possible run. The coming months will be critical as he decides whether to take the plunge into local politics once again.
