In the lead-up to the municipal elections in Lyon in 2026, Jean-Michel Aulas, a candidate supported by right-leaning parties, has announced his list of arrondissement candidates. As a surprising contender, Aulas has shifted the campaign dynamics, pushing his opponents, especially incumbent Mayor Grégory Doucet, into a defensive position.
Lyon 2026 Municipal Elections: Candidates Unveiled
Aulas’s team includes experienced candidates primarily from the right, with three representatives from The Republicans (LR) and one from Horizons. Notably, the candidates bring a mix of political and professional backgrounds.
Candidate Profiles
- Laure Cédat (1st arrondissement): A cultural entrepreneur and community advocate, Cédat has 25 years of experience in arts and citizen projects.
- Pierre Oliver (2nd arrondissement): The current mayor and a regional councilor, Oliver has a background in real estate before entering politics.
- Béatrice de Montille (3rd arrondissement): An entrepreneur with a substantial business, she has been politically active since 2020.
- Loïc Terrenes (4th arrondissement): A regional director in education and employment, Terrenes has a history of political engagement.
- Thomas Rudigoz (5th arrondissement): With extensive experience in municipal governance, Rudigoz has previously served as mayor and deputy.
- Samuel Soulier (6th arrondissement): At 29, Soulier is the youngest on the list and is known for his community involvement.
- Émilie Desrieux (7th arrondissement): A doctor of pharmacy, Desrieux addresses urban renewal and health issues in her role as a councilor.
- Barbara Vélon (8th arrondissement): An active community member, Vélon focuses on social issues as an associate nurse.
- Laila Khallouk (9th arrondissement): A former real estate executive, she represents a younger generation and is one of the founding members of the citizens’ movement supporting Aulas.
Demographics and Team Dynamics
The candidate list reflects a balanced approach, with a median age of 40, including five women out of nine positions. This diversity might appeal to voters seeking representation of various perspectives in local governance.
Strategic Goals
- Focus on sustainable urban development.
- Enhance community engagement and service delivery.
- Foster economic growth and social cohesion.
Aulas aims to present a new generation of local leaders committed to addressing Lyon’s challenges. His team emphasizes collaboration, bridging institutional experience with entrepreneurial insight to better serve the populace.
