The national and local press report on the results of an IFOP poll concerning the municipal election in Nice. With 47% of the vote intentions in the first round and 54% in the second round, the incumbent mayor would be re-elected without difficulty. It was known that Christian Estrosi was the clear favorite for his re-election, and this poll seems to confirm that.
A small question, however, about the release of this poll: just 48 hours after the official announcement of the candidacy of dissident Olivier Bettati, who could, or might still be, the spoiler in this election!
The timing is impeccable, especially considering that the poll was conducted from November 27 to 29, while Olivier Bettati officially announced his candidacy on the 29th during the day to Nice-Matin and on the 30th morning… to the “other” press.
The consequence is that with 4% of the vote intentions, this candidacy will immediately have a weak image in the eyes of an electorate that, at least seemingly, seeks the security of the known rather than the unexpected. A poor start (on paper) for this dissident who aspires to participate in a four-way race.
No surprises either regarding the other candidates: Patrick Allemand is credited with 18%, and Marie-Christine Arnautu follows closely with 17%.
All other candidates would achieve single-digit scores, resulting in not being on the starting line for the second round.
