Édouard Philippe, the candidate from Horizons party, is strategically positioning himself as a challenger to the National Rally (RN) ahead of the 2027 French presidential election. His campaign is focused on overcoming a perceived historical disadvantage – a pattern where candidates from the center-right struggle to gain traction against the far-right. To mobilize voters, Philippe’s supporters are emphasizing the strong polling numbers of the RN, framing him as the primary alternative. A large-scale virtual “apartment meeting” is scheduled for Thursday, preceding a planned rally in Paris next week. This event aims to galvanize support, particularly from right-leaning and centrist voters. The strategy hinges on presenting Philippe as a viable candidate capable of preventing a far-right victory, referencing a past trend dubbed the “Juppé curse” where similar candidates have failed to succeed. The campaign is actively working to consolidate support and present a unified front against the RN’s growing influence.