A French Senator's Bold Stance Against Trump

Senator Claude Malhuret of France faces off against President Trump's perceived authoritarianism, using historical references to express his concerns during a recent remembrance event in Vichy.

At a ceremonial event in Vichy, France, marking the 80th anniversary of WWII's conclusion in Europe, Senator Claude Malhuret took center stage to present a wreath to fallen soldiers. This occasion drew attention as Malhuret, a prominent, right-leaning centrist and former mayor of Vichy, has emerged as a vocal opponent of President Trump in Europe.

Known for his sharp and often biting critiques, Malhuret’s speeches, which have garnered millions of views, cast Trump as an “incendiary emperor” and highlight an erosion of constitutional principles under his administration. In a sensational comparison, he equated Trump to infamous Roman emperors Nero and Caligula, emphasizing that Caligula’s horse, albeit a bizarre appointment, “did no harm to anyone.”

Amidst student speeches emphasizing peace, French values, and the historical fascist threat, Malhuret commented on the lessons of Vichy's past. His tenure as mayor spanned from 1989 to 2017, and he has long denounced totalitarian regimes from any political spectrum. As a figure deeply rooted in Vichy’s complex history, he expressed that his strong resistance against what he perceives as American tyranny is influenced by the lessons of collaboration and oppression endured during WWII.

Referencing Vichy's past, which is infamous for its collaboration with Nazi Germany and the subsequent deportation of thousands of Jews, Malhuret asserted he had always been an ardent opponent of totalitarianism, making clear that his passion for democracy is not just political rhetoric but a deeply held conviction shaped by historical context.