In a Politico article, the appointment of Sébastien Lecornu as Prime Minister is described as Emmanuel Macron’s riskiest gamble to address the political deadlock in France. Lecornu is tasked with reviving a paralyzed majority in the National Assembly and securing agreement on spending cuts worth tens of billions of euros to avoid a debt crisis.
The 36-year-old Lecornu, the fifth Prime Minister in less than two years, has a long-standing relationship of trust with the French President. As former Defense Minister, he has proven his ability to handle difficult situations, from defusing the “Yellow Vests” crisis in 2018 to passing the seven-year military program in 2023 with support from 400 lawmakers.
Sébastien Lecornu: bridging right and left
With roots on the right and good relations with the Republicans, Lecornu has earned respect from parts of the left as well, mainly due to his management of France’s rearmament following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Indicative of the new approach is the abandonment of the proposal to abolish two public holidays, which had caused intense reactions.
Sébastien Lecornu: the political red lines
Despite his flexibility, the negotiating field remains narrow. The socialists demand suspension of pension reform and imposing a tax on the super-rich, something the Élysée rejects. Macron, for his part, leaves open the possibility of limiting austerity measures, abandoning the plan for €43.8 billion in cuts by 2026.
The challenge for the new Prime Minister
According to Politico, Lecornu’s political survival will depend on his ability to secure concessions from both the opposition and his own camp. If the crisis deepens, Macron’s close ally could become his most dangerous opponent.
