francois fillon

Preliminary charges center on allegations the center-right presidential nominee paid his wife and children for fake jobs with public funds. Once the favorite, Fillon has faltered under the scandal.

Conservative candidate Francois Fillon and far-right candidate Marine Le Pen are both accused of misusing public funds. Fillon allegedly hired his wife for what was essentially a sham position.

This marks the first time in 60 years that a sitting French president hasn't sought re-election. Hollande is extremely unpopular, and this opens up the candidate field for his Socialist Party.

Fillon defeated the more moderate Alain Juppé. Fillon will face candidates from the left and the extreme right in the French presidential election next May.