French President Emmanuel Macron is set to appoint a new prime minister by Friday, aiming to restore stability following the resignation of Sébastien Lecornu after just 27 days in office. The government’s spokesperson, Aurore Bergé, said the appointment could be the “last chance” for France’s political class to regain public trust and prevent the far right from seizing power.
The decision comes amid a prolonged political crisis, with France’s parliament deeply fragmented since the 2024 elections left no clear majority. Macron’s administration is struggling to pass a new budget while facing mounting pressure over the nation’s widening deficit, projected to exceed 5.5% of GDP — far above the EU’s fiscal limits.
Lecornu’s departure has left Macron with limited options: call snap elections, resign, or attempt to form a coalition government. Most lawmakers reportedly oppose new elections, fearing further instability. Meanwhile, both the far right and hard left have vowed to block any new government that continues Macron’s policies, with Marine Le Pen’s National Rally pledging to “vote against everything.”
One possible path forward could involve appointing a moderate left-leaning prime minister, potentially from the Socialist or Green parties, though this would require Macron to compromise on key reforms — particularly the controversial pension law that raised the retirement age to 64.
Despite growing speculation and internal dissent, Macron remains firm in rejecting calls for early elections or resignation. The coming days are expected to be decisive for France’s political direction as the president attempts to rebuild parliamentary unity and avert a potential far-right surge.