That IMF man in New York. What the French are saying

"Latest opinion polls had put Strauss-Kahn as clear favorite to win if he were to stand in France's 2012 presidential election. Other likely contenders from the opposition Socialist Party to unseat the ruling conservative UMP party include party leader Martine Aubry and left-wing veteran Francois Hollande."

Reuters dubs it a Factbox on what the French were saying as at last Sunday about the arrest of the head of the IMF in New York. Since then things have gotten worse for the man. A sampling:

"ANNE SINCLAIR, STRAUSS-KAHN'S WIFE

"I do not believe for a single second the accusations leveled against my husband. I do not doubt his innocence will be established. I appeal for restraint and decency."

HERVE MORIN, FORMER Defense MINISTER, PRESIDENT NEW Center PARTY

"I'm not a socialist, he is not my political friend, but despite that I call for the presumption of innocence. I will not take part in the witch hunt, with the dogs that are barking and those spreading rumors and saying 'I told you so'."

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