There was an article in a recent edition of Le Nouvel Observateur (I think) that French politicians in general view sitting in the EP as a form of political exile; it focused in particular on Rachida Dati (as L'Obs is wont to do) and her reluctance to stand for the EP elections. Since media coverage is so tepid, amibitious politicians don't view it as a viable career option or more than a temporary gig, creating an attention downward spiral of sorts (and so much for serving the public as its own reward!).

"The basis of optimism is sheer terror" - Oscar Wilde