Politico EU published its "Power 40 Paris" ranking for 2026, identifying 40 influencers who shape the political and public affairs landscape in Paris [1].
The ranking serves as a barometer for political power in France. It highlights the individuals who structure the national agenda and will play a decisive role as the country moves toward 2027 [2].
Among the highlighted figures is Eric Trappier, a prominent name in French industry and political influence [3]. The publication said that while various presidents have come and gone over decades, the influence of Dassault remains a constant in the capital [3].
Politico EU said the list is a collection of influencers who structure the political agenda and public affairs in Paris [2]. These figures are viewed as critical actors who navigate the intersection of corporate interests and government policy.
Regarding Trappier, the reporting suggests he is viewed by some as being credited and by others as being accused of his specific level of influence [3]. This tension reflects the broader debate in France regarding the role of industrial titans in steering state direction.
The 2026 list [1] focuses on the ability of these 40 individuals to impact policy decisions and maintain networks of power within the city's administrative centers. By mapping these connections, the ranking provides a blueprint of who holds the actual levers of power, regardless of official titles [2].
“"Notre top 40 des influenceurs qui structurent l’agenda politique"”
The Power 40 ranking underscores the enduring influence of France's industrial elite and the 'permanent state' of power in Paris. By emphasizing figures like Eric Trappier and the longevity of Dassault, the list suggests that structural influence in France often persists beyond the electoral cycles of the presidency, creating a dual power system where corporate leadership maintains long-term stability while political leadership fluctuates.
