Do the French Have Their Own Version of BDS?

Perhaps, Americans aren't the only ones who have an irrational view
of the person in the who holds the highest political office in their country.
From this New York Times article, it looks like the French might be suffering
with Sarkozy Derangement Syndrome. Here's a quote from the article:

The passion has soured, said Eric Empatz, editor in chief of Le
Canard Enchaîné, a weekly newspaper that combines satire and
investigative reporting. “This obsession of the French with Sarkozy
has turned, and turned negative,” Mr. Empatz said. “The obsession
continues, just as passionately, but now it’s negative. In that, too,
it’s like a bad love affair.”

With his opinion poll ratings at historic lows, Mr. Sarkozy has
followed advice, including that of his wife, to appear more presidential
in public, and to appear less often. The “bling-bling” of rich friends
and extravagant, chunky watches has been largely replaced by
discretion, seriousness and carefully managed appearances.

“He fascinates everyone,” said a friend who knows Mr. Sarkozy
well and did not want to be identified speaking about him. “He’s
passionate, and he polarizes people.”

Exit question: Why do conservatives stir so much emotion?