French presidential debate

Like millions of French TV viewers, we watched the long, two-and-a-half hour oratory dual between the two presidential candidates. Here’s our take; Sarkozy had everything to lose, Royal everything to win. She was a bit nervous, he managed to keep his composure. For us, Americans, Nicolas Sarkozy’s program seems a better fit for France. Ségolène Royal plans are weak and bet on the come for their financing, namely the country’s economic rebound.

At one point, Ségolène lost her temper and Nicolas jumped all over it. The later, although relatively young, is already a political animal. Lawyer by education, he’s quite articulate, knows how to “address the jurors” and ably taps into each one of his opponent’s error. I think Sarkozy is both a manipulator and a demagogue. Royal is still “green” and lacks preparation for this kind of debate.

I can’t help but think that Hollande, her significant other, and the socialists who have nominated Royal, set her up to fail against such a ruthless adversary. Perhaps this exercise will be the prelude to another attempt five years from now? Sarkozy claims that he’s a workhorse and a doer; once elected, he will have to turn that claim into concrete results. This will have to be a departure from his five year government tenure that the French don't seem to appreciate. Things are easier said than done; time will tell…