Disagreements over government formation between Barnier and Macron: towards a political crisis?
Michel Barnier, recently appointed Prime Minister, is experiencing strong tensions with President Emmanuel Macron, particularly around the composition of the future government. In recent days, the two men have met several times at the Élysée, but the exchanges have suddenly become tense. The Prime Minister thought he had put together a balanced government team, respecting the different political sensitivities, but he came up against the inflexibility of the Head of State, who is reportedly seeking to impose the names of outgoing ministers, such as Gérald Darmanin for the Quai d'Orsay.
Such a situation has sown doubts about Barnier's ability to keep his commitments, to the point that rumours of resignation circulated on Wednesday evening. Some observers are already wondering about the possibility of a Barnier government, as the situation seems so blocked.
Fiscal divergences and tensions with Macronists
Tension is also palpable within the Ensemble pour la République (EPR) group, the former Macronist majority, which accuses Barnier of wanting to increase taxes, a red line for them. Gabriel Attal, former prime minister, and Gérald Darmanin have even joined forces to affirm their opposition to any tax increase, which further crystallizes tensions.
In addition, Macronists criticize Barnier's method, accusing him of not having shared his intentions and choices in a transparent manner. MPs like Franck Riester denounce a lack of communication, and figures close to the Élysée go so far as to describe the situation as a "mess", claiming that Barnier could even face a motion of censure.
Faced with these criticisms, Barnier remains focused on the formation of his government, insisting on the seriousness of the country's budgetary situation, which he discovered upon his arrival at Matignon. He calls for responsibility to redress the economic situation and improve the standard of living of the French, while specifying that the tax burden is already among the highest in Europe.
An uncertain future for the Barnier government
While Les Républicains thought that the composition of the government was moving forward, a meeting planned between Barnier and figures from the right, such as Gérard Larcher and Bruno Retailleau, was postponed without new perspectives, a sign that the situation is far from being resolved. Members of the LR party are starting to worry and are exchanging alarming messages, even doubting the existence of a future Barnier government.
The crisis at the top of the executive reveals a deep disagreement over the direction France should take, and the situation remains at an impasse for the moment.
