Léa Salamé announced she is withdrawing from presenting the "20 heures" news programme on France 2, effective Monday, Aug. 24 [1].
The move ensures the impartiality of one of France's most-watched news broadcasts during a high-stakes election cycle. Because Salamé occupies a prominent role in public media, her position could create a perceived bias in coverage of her partner's political campaign.
Salamé said the announcement Sunday, Aug. 23, following the official declaration of candidacy by her partner, Raphaël Glucksmann, for the 2027 French presidential election [2, 3]. The journalist has led the news journal since 2025 [2].
"I am withdrawing from the 20 heures to avoid any suspicion of conflict of interest," Salamé said [2]. She said the decision was "evident and difficult" [3].
France 2 has designated 43-year-old Jean-Baptiste Marteau to take over the presentation duties [4]. The transition occurs immediately to prevent any overlap between Salamé's journalistic duties and Glucksmann's campaign activities.
While Salamé is leaving the flagship evening news, reports indicate she may be involved in new programmes in the future [1]. The decision reflects a strict adherence to journalistic ethics regarding the separation of private relationships and public reporting, especially within state-funded media.
Glucksmann's entry into the 2027 race marks a significant shift in the political landscape, necessitating these precautions to maintain public trust in the neutrality of the France 2 newsroom [3].
“"I am withdrawing from the 20 heures to avoid any suspicion of conflict of interest,"”
This withdrawal highlights the rigid ethical standards of French public broadcasting, where the appearance of a conflict of interest is treated as seriously as an actual one. By stepping down before the 2027 campaign intensifies, Salamé protects both the credibility of France 2 and the legitimacy of Glucksmann's candidacy against accusations of media favoritism.
