Story perspectives

Paris Mayoral Race: Candidates Clash Over Urban Policies

3/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Paris since 2014 under Mayor Anne Hidalgo prioritizes pedestrianization and cycling, reducing car traffic and expanding bike lanes.
These changes have made the city more walkable and environmentally friendly, though they drew congestion.
In the upcoming mayoral race, Emmanuel Grégoire, Hidalgo's successor, leads in polls.
Rachida Dati, the right-wing candidate, proposes reversing some measures.
Despite air quality improvements, many locals feel the city is not headed in the right direction.

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Story summary

Paris since 2014 under Mayor Anne Hidalgo prioritizes pedestrianization and cycling, reducing car traffic and expanding bike lanes.
These changes have made the city more walkable and environmentally friendly, though they drew congestion.
In the upcoming mayoral race, Emmanuel Grégoire, Hidalgo's successor, leads in polls.
Rachida Dati, the right-wing candidate, proposes reversing some measures.
Despite air quality improvements, many locals feel the city is not headed in the right direction.