Martine Aubry, an iconic figure of the French left and mayor of Lille since 2001, announced her resignation effective mid-March. At 74, the former minister—best known for the 35-hour workweek reform—leaves an indelible mark on Lille. According to Pierre Mathiot, a political analyst from Lille, Aubry embodies a "strong character" with a deep commitment to her "local mandates". IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES