France's local elections have begun, marking a left-right showdown that will serve as a litmus test for the Sarkozy government. Image from www.20minutes.fr. Eight months after the presidential and parliamentary elections, France's local elections kicked off nationwide this weekend on January 13, serving as a test of President Nicolas Sarkozy’s administration since taking office. The elections will be held on March 9 and 16. According to the latest polls, 79% believe these are purely local political considerations, while 20% disagree, viewing them as a test of the new government. 37% see it as an opportunity to oppose the president and government, while 33% view it as support for the new administration. Over 75% believe candidates' platforms should be the primary consideration, and 72% think the president should not intervene in the campaign.

President Nicolas Sarkozy also ignited the local election battle this weekend at the UMP congress in Paris, before special guests including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and 3,000 party delegates. Former Socialist presidential candidate Ségolène Royal joined the fray without exception, campaigning this weekend in Saint-Brieuc. Her efforts targeted criticism of President Sarkozy, who described the presidential lifestyle as "like that of a billionaire," hoping to rally left-wing voters to fully support the Socialists in winning the election. Socialist Party leader François Hollande hopes these local elections will revitalize his party. Current Paris Mayor Bertrand Delanoe publicly announced his major policy proposals this Sunday. The centrist MoDem party, led by Marielle de Sarnez, has also set sail to compete. The fire of France's local elections is spreading, entering a period of intense conflict.