Tensions in Cash Investigation: Blanquer accuses Lucet of undemocratic methods

In a particularly tense episode of "Cash Investigation" broadcast on September 17 on France 2, Élise Lucet confronted Jean-Michel Blanquer, former Minister of National Education, about a controversial mission commissioned from the consulting firm McKinsey, costing €496. The investigation, entitled "McKinsey, a firm at the heart of power", revealed the firm's involvement in French politics, including its collaboration with the Ministry of Education during Emmanuel Macron's term.

Élise Lucet’s questions concerned a report commissioned in 2020, aimed at shedding light on the evolution of the teaching profession, and which had been used at a conference during the Covid-19 pandemic. Lucet, determined to get answers, challenged Blanquer at a conference, insisting that public money justified her questions.

The meeting quickly degenerated. Blanquer, refusing to be filmed, tried to walk away, declaring that the Ministry of Education was less concerned by this issue than other ministries. When Lucet pointed out the cost per page of the report, Blanquer, visibly exasperated, retorted: "Your methods are not those of a democracy, you are dangerous by your ways of doing things."

Lucet responded by defending his role as a journalist, saying it was his responsibility to question officials about the use of public funds. Despite his attempts to get clarification, Blanquer cut the discussion short, before leaving the stage, pointing to the multitude of journalists demanding his attention and saying he was not required to answer every question.

The exchange, marking a confrontation between the political world and investigative journalism, raises questions about the transparency of public spending and the role of the media in holding leaders accountable.