What Politicians Do

 

France from 9/22/2025 News Report

French senator Joël Guerriau used the term "handling error" to claim that he accidentally drugged fellow MP Sandrine Josso during a meeting in November 2023. Josso was rushed to the hospital after feeling ill and disoriented, where tests revealed she had ecstasy in her system. 

The incident and Guerriau's explanation

• The meeting: The two had met at Guerriau's apartment to celebrate his recent reelection.
• Josso's account: Josso recalled seeing Guerriau take a white substance from a drawer and, after having another drink, began experiencing heart palpitations and feeling ill.
• Guerriau's defense: When investigators questioned him, Guerriau claimed he was going through a difficult time due to a dying pet and a friend's illness. He said he had considered taking the drug himself, poured it into a cup, but then forgot about it. He later apologized to Josso, claiming he had served her the wrong glass by mistake.
• Legal action: Josso filed a criminal complaint, and Guerriau was placed under judicial supervision, prohibited from contacting the complainant or witnesses. He denied any intention to sexually assault her. 

Consequences and recent developments

• Political fallout: Guerriau was suspended from the Horizons political party and his parliamentary group.
• A second accusation: A second woman made a similar accusation against Guerriau in June 2025.
• Resignation: In September 2025, Guerriau announced he would resign from the Senate the following month. He previously stated it would be "unfair" to step down before the court's ruling.
• Trial ordered: A trial was ordered in late June 2025.