Summary
Highlights
On March 30, 2014, David Rachline, then 26, was elected mayor of Fréjus, a town considered a 'laboratory' for the National Rally. The video explores what far-right governance looks like in a major city, examining Rachline's policies, electoral support, and the opposition he faces. Rachline himself refused to be interviewed.
Interviews with Fréjus residents reveal mixed opinions on Rachline's tenure, with many supporting his re-election due to his firm stance and perceived improvements in public safety. However, the video highlights Rachline's radical profile, including past controversial statements and associations with far-right groups, and ongoing legal issues such as an investigation into alleged favoritism in public contracts.
Michel Deage, president of the Republican Forum, an association opposing Rachline, discusses the controversial opening of a mosque in Fréjus. Rachline initially opposed its construction, even organizing a public rally against it, which Deage cites as an example of how the National Rally implements its ideology at the local level. The association compiles such instances in a 'black book' documenting the municipal management.
The video investigates Rachline's urban planning policies, particularly in Fréjus Plage, described as 'bunkerization' due to massive construction. The local urban plan (PLU) was modified three times under Rachline, notably to facilitate a luxury hotel project. Critics argue that green spaces and sports fields have been sold off for concrete development, leading to social problems and residents losing sunlight and experiencing property damage from new constructions.
Emmanuel Bonemin, leader of a cross-party list called 'Notre Fréjus' and an opposition elected official, criticizes Rachline's governance. He points out that Rachline cut subsidies to social centers, leading to their closure, and increased the municipal budget for associations significantly just before elections, which Bonemin views as vote-buying. This spending has contributed to a rise in the city's debt, contradicting Rachline's initial promise to reduce it.