France's President Macron Appoints Loyal Ally as New Prime Minister

Strategic Insights -

President Emmanuel Macron of France has chosen Sébastien Lecornu, a trusted ally and minister, to be his new prime minister. Lecornu, 39, has been a constant presence in Macron's government since 2017 and must now navigate the challenges of France's financial woes, social unrest, and low presidential popularity. As defense minister since 2022, Lecornu has aligned himself with Macron's vision of a more independent France, but his proximity to the president may become a liability in his new role.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sébastien Lecornu, 39, has been appointed as the new prime minister of France by President Emmanuel Macron, despite his already low popularity.
  • Lecornu has been a constant presence in Macron's government since 2017, holding various cabinet jobs, including minister for overseas affairs and defense minister.
  • As defense minister, Lecornu has subscribed to Macron's view that France and Europe must chart a more independent course, with a stronger military presence.
  • Lecornu's appointment has been met with stiff opposition from Macron's opponents, who view him as too close to the president and lacking in compromises with other parties.
  • Lecornu's predecessor, Édouard Philippe, lasted only nine months in the role, and his appointment raises questions about whether he can deliver results and connect with the French public.
  • Cédric Perrin, a senator from eastern France, described Lecornu as a hard-working and knowledgeable defense minister, but also a discreet and ambitious politician who knows how to maneuver.
  • Lecornu's background as a parliamentary attaché, adviser to Bruno Le Maire, and mayor of Vernon, a town in Normandy, demonstrates his precocious start in politics.
  • Mainstream conservatives, including Édouard Guillaume and Gérald Darmanin, have praised Lecornu's ability to dialogue and work with others, but his appointment may be seen as Macronism's last shot.

Statistics:

  • 2017: Lecornu was elected to his first term as senator for the Eure area of Normandy.
  • 2022: Lecornu became defense minister under President Macron.
  • 2023: Lecornu is appointed as prime minister, succeeding Édouard Philippe.
  • 24 hours: It took Macron less than 24 hours to appoint Lecornu as prime minister after the previous government collapsed.
  • 80%: According to polls, Macron's popularity has sunk to its lowest level, 80%, since taking office.
  • 35%: Lecornu's own popularity rating, according to a recent survey, is at 35%, lower than Macron's.

Sources:

  • The New York Times
  • Le Monde
  • RTL radio
  • Franceinfo radio
  • Photograph by Ludovic Marin/A.F.P. -- Getty Images