Michel Barnier, a 73-year-old former European Commissioner and member of The Republicans, was appointed as the Prime Minister after a government vacancy of over fifty days. The initial days of his term were marked by consultations with various political figures including Gabriel Attal, Jean Castex, Gérard Larcher, Laurent Wauquiez, and Bruno Retailleau. During the handover of power with Gabriel Attal, the youngest Prime Minister of the Fifth Republic, Barnier promised to bring about changes and disruptions in his government.
Barnier’s first official visit was to Necker Hospital in Paris, where he emphasized the importance of prioritizing health in his government. He also responded to remarks made by Jordan Bardella, the president of the National Rally, asserting that he was under the scrutiny of all French citizens. Meanwhile, protests organized by La France Insoumise against Barnier’s appointment drew large crowds of demonstrators in various cities across France. Despite the opposition, Barnier continued his consultations with key figures including his predecessor Elisabeth Borne and the President of the National Assembly, Yaël Braun-Pivet.
As Barnier gained further media attention and featured in weekend newspapers, he expressed his vision for a collective horizon for France. He emphasized the need for a dynamic compromise culture within his government, where individual identities would be retained. Additionally, Barnier engaged in discussions with representatives of Horizons, including former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, as he continued to consolidate support within his political circles. Meanwhile, Marine Le Pen in Hénin-Beaumont denied claims that President Macron had contacted her to ensure no automatic censorship from the National Rally against Barnier.
Barnier met with representatives of the LIOT group of MPs at Matignon, denying rumors of a dedicated immigration ministry under consideration. He also focused on preparing the state budget with key ministers, highlighting his methodical and serious approach to governance since taking office. Engaging with various political factions, Barnier underscored the importance of unity and support from all parties in the new government, emphasizing the need for a fresh start rather than a mere reshuffle of the existing administration.
Barnier announced plans to finalize the composition of his government the following week, ensuring a balanced and diverse representation of voices. During a meeting with Les Républicains lawmakers in Savoie, he emphasized the absence of exclusive domains for the President, advocating for shared responsibilities. The request for a right-wing policy orientation from the head of LR deputies, Laurent Wauquiez, highlighted the expectations for a shift towards greater security and reduced immigration levels, with reassurance of clear support from all party members. The conclusion of Barnier’s political outreach marked the beginning of a period aimed at selecting potential ministers.
