In the lead-up to the municipal elections in France, candidates are increasingly making promises of free public services, such as free transportation and school supplies. The author, Bertille Bayart, argues that these pledges are not only unrealistic but also indicative of a concerning trend where politicians evade responsibility for the costs associated with public services. She suggests that such promises are often rooted in populism, appealing to voter sentiment without a solid plan for financing these initiatives.

Bayart further explores the implications of offering services for free, cautioning that the phrase 'if it's free, you are the product' applies not just to digital platforms, but also to the realm of public policy. This notion raises questions about the sustainability of public funding if services become entirely free at the point of access. The author implies that this could lead to a disconnection between service usage and public accountability, with future generations potentially bearing the financial burden.

Ultimately, the article serves as a call for candidates and politicians to approach the funding of public services with a more responsible and realistic mindset. Rather than resorting to populist promises, Bayart advocates for transparency and accountability in how public services are funded and delivered, warning against the cycle of short-term gains at the expense of long-term fiscal health.