Lucie Castets, the candidate for Prime Minister for the New Popular Front, was warmly welcomed by members of La France Insoumise (LFI) during the party’s summer university event in Châteauneuf-sur-Isère on August 24, 2024. Surrounded by LFI deputies Hadrien Clouet and Manuel Bompard, as well as European Deputy Manon Aubry, Castets was greeted like a rock star at the event. This was her third political appearance of the week, following events with the Ecologists in Tours and the French Communist Party in Montpellier. Castets had recently begun to gain experience in public speaking, with her first large-scale address taking place in front of 2,000 to 3,000 people at the Ecologist event in Tours.
During the question-and-answer session at the LFI event in Drôme, Castets engaged with attendees for an hour and a half, showcasing her program and fielding inquiries from her allies in LFI. The atmosphere was friendly, with moments of humor, irony, and seriousness as she discussed her policies. The audience chanted “Lucie Castets for Prime Minister, otherwise Macron impeachment,” highlighting their strong support for her candidacy. Although she was well-received by the audience at the LFI event, Castets faced a more challenging audience at the Elysée on Friday morning, where she was questioned by President Emmanuel Macron for ninety minutes. Representatives from different parties praised the quality of their exchange, describing it as the first face-to-face confrontation of a potential cohabitation.
Since being chosen as the NFP candidate on July 23, Lucie Castets has dedicated her time to developing her program and public speaking skills. She has received praise for her determination and solidity, with many on the left describing her in positive terms. Castets has demonstrated growth in her political presence, moving beyond her initial hesitant and robotic demeanor to embody the role of a potential Prime Minister. Despite facing criticism and challenges, Castets remains committed to learning and evolving. Her dedication to her role and her willingness to adapt have been noted by her colleagues and supporters.
Castets’ journey to becoming a serious political contender has not been without its obstacles. She has canceled her vacation plans and dedicated her summer to researching and preparing for her role. Castets’ transformation from a political novice to a respected candidate has impressed many within the left-wing political sphere. Her willingness to engage in dialogue, learn from her experiences, and adapt to new challenges has set her apart as a promising figure in French politics. The support and admiration she has garnered from her peers speak to her growing influence and impact within the political landscape.
As Castets continues to navigate the complexities of political life and engage with a variety of audiences, she remains committed to representing the interests of the people. Her ability to connect with diverse groups and address a range of issues has positioned her as a formidable candidate for the role of Prime Minister. Castets’ dedication to her role and her willingness to engage with different perspectives have earned her praise and recognition from her colleagues and constituents. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Castets’ resilience, determination, and commitment to her principles set her apart as a rising star in French politics.
