Two of the rising stars in local politics open up for Nice Premium. Marine Brenier leads the Jeunes Populaires of the Alpes-Maritimes and is a city councilor for the UMP in Nice, while Mélanie Russo is responsible for the Young Socialists movement in the 06 department. Two young women: a simple coincidence or a sign of women making a strong entry into politics? Two charming and dynamic assets in the usually change-resistant political landscape of the Côte d’Azur… An opportunity to learn more about this new generation.
What path did you take to enter politics?
Marine Brenier: I studied law at the university in Nice, then completed a Master 1 and 2 in Aix. Currently, I am continuing my studies in law. During my law studies, I gained access to the political world through student associations. I then got involved with the Jeunes Populaires UMP. But, I entered politics primarily to support Christian Estrosi. We were like a small “group” that followed Christian, then President of the General Council.
Mélanie Russo: At the age of 17, I sought to join a political party. I was in high school at the Parc Imperial and wanted to fight against inequalities. My goal was to achieve a fairer society. I joined the Young Socialists (MJS) shortly after. On the ground, I met Mathieu Bonnet and participated in the regional campaign at only 18. Michel Vauzelle was then elected. Six months later, I was propelled to be the head of the MJS. Meanwhile, I continue my history studies.
Who are your role models in politics?
Marine Brenier: Nicolas Sarkozy for his dynamism and what he represented during his years in power. He changed the way politics was conducted, in contrast to personalities like Jacques Chirac. Christian Estrosi also, as he was the one who encouraged me to engage in politics.
Mélanie Russo: Léon Blum for his pre-war fight with the Popular Front. Robert Badinter for his ideals and values, and Benoit Hamon because he perfectly embodies this new generation of the Socialist Party.
You are 26 years old (Marine Brenier) and 21 years old (Mélanie Russo). What is your view on the presence of youth in political parties?
Marine Brenier: The new generation is ambitious and eager for reforms. We have a real place to claim. I notice that militants are increasingly young and active. In the Jeunes Populaires movement, we claim to be France’s number one youth movement. There is a strong desire for change. People like Nicolas Sarkozy have enabled this, contrary to a Jacques Chirac or a François Mitterrand.
Mélanie Russo: We want to shake things up. There aren’t many young candidates in politics, but they are combative. Young people are here to make a difference, even if change is being implemented with François Hollande. The new generation is present.
What are your long-term ambitions? Do you plan to take on a position of responsibility in a few years?
Marine Brenier: For now, it’s more a matter of opportunities than anything else. I remain connected to Christian Estrosi no matter what. Meanwhile, I continue my law studies. But even though I’ve never faced voter elections, I’m not closing the door to a possible proposal. Politics is above all a matter of conviction.
Mélanie Russo: It’s good to have ambitions. But we must see if the person is 100% capable. Calculate whether a political career is compatible with the rest. For now, I focus on the present and action on the ground. Locally, I’ve learned a lot from Patrick Allemand, Yann Librati. At my age, I’ve already participated in four primary elections.
