Villers-Cotterêts Loses RN Control in 2026 Municipal Elections

Villers-Cotterêts, a town of approximately 10,000 inhabitants located in the southern Aisne region, has undergone a notable political transformation. After twelve years under the leadership of RN Mayor Franck Briffaut, the town has elected a new mayor. On March 22, Jeanne Roussel, heading a diverse center list, managed to secure victory against the National Rally party led by Jordan Bardella, garnering 52.51% of the votes. This significant win marks the only instance where the RN has failed to retain control in the 2026 municipal elections, highlighting a shift in voter sentiment within the community. Roussel's coalition, which emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration, appears to have resonated with the electorate, suggesting a potential trend towards more moderate political representation in the region. The election results reflect a growing appetite for change among Villers-Cotterêts residents, who may be seeking alternatives to the RN's long-standing dominance. With Roussel at the helm, local observers are keen to see how her administration will approach key issues facing the town and whether this electoral shift will influence other municipalities in the area as well.