With an eye to 2012, Sarkozy party turns to its base / Presidential hopefuls vie for Socialist Party nomination

Facing a disillusioned and fractured voting base ahead of presidential elections in 2012, the ruling UMP party's leadership is launching a comprehensive survey among members in July 2011.

Separately, France’s main opposition Socialist Party longs to regain the Elysee Palace more than 15 years after their exit from power. FRANCE 24 takes a look at the Socialist contenders who are vying for the party’s nomination in 2012.

ESO: Background information: France's Sarkozy draws election race battle lines http://www.europeansources.info/record/frances-sarkozy-draws-election-race-battle-lines/

France24, 15.7.11: Presidential hopefuls vie for Socialist Party nomination http://www.france24.com/en/20110715-france-socialist-party-primaries-presidential-hopefuls-2012-race-aubry-hollande-royal

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