French President Emmanuel Macron, often perceived as aloof, made a surprise visit to a small bar in Thouars to engage directly with locals, aiming to shed his remote 'Jupiter' image. This unannounced trip, where he chatted about everyday concerns like health care and jobs, reflects his strategy to connect with the French people away from media scrutiny, echoing efforts by past presidents to bond with citizens. His solo visits to PMU bars, which are among the few surviving community hubs in small towns, represent a shift towards more authenticity and simplicity in his public engagements. Macron's efforts come amidst his rising popularity, as he seeks to reassure a populace concerned about global politics and economic challenges. Despite criticisms labeling his approach as superficial, his recent actions have been received positively, and his popularity is increasing in the twilight years of his presidency.

Emmanuel Macron visited Le Prem’s bar in Thouars unannounced, buying coffee for patrons and engaging in discussions about everyday issues like health care and employment, which surprised and impressed the locals who initially thought he was a lookalike.

Macron's visit is part of a broader strategy to break away from his 'Jupiter' image and connect with the French populace by making unannounced visits to PMU bar-tabacs, which are cultural community hubs in small towns across France.

Thouars, like many small towns in France, has suffered from economic decline with many local businesses shuttering, making Macron's visit notable as these bars are among the few remaining communal spaces.

Macron's efforts to engage with the public align with his desire to be seen as more approachable and sincere, contrasting with his previous image and echoing the popular public engagement styles of past presidents like Mitterrand and Chirac.

Recent polls indicate a rise in Macron's popularity, suggesting that his efforts to connect with people and address their concerns, amidst worries about global political tensions and economic issues, are resonating positively with the public.

Despite being in the final years of his presidency, Macron is taking on a pivotal role in Europe, especially in light of the U.S.'s changing stance towards the continent, and his direct engagement with citizens forms part of this renewed approach.

Critics have accused Macron of using these visits as a superficial attempt at authenticity, but his interactions in Thouars, including a visit to a local company contributing to the Notre-Dame Cathedral restoration, have been perceived as genuine efforts to bond with the people.