French President Emmanuel Macron is considering a cabinet reshuffle today, due to an array of criticism and challenges from the far-right National Rally, as well as internal party divisions. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne’s position is under threat, especially after an immigration bill was defeated in Parliament, prompting critical revisions demanded by the center-right opposition.
Macron met with Borne on Sunday night, according to official reports, when they reportedly discussed flooding in northern France and a looming cold snap. However, many believe that the real subject of discussion was the upcoming cabinet reshuffle.
Key players, including centrist leader François Bayrou, highlighted the need for a shift in government composition.
The French system implies that the president establishes general policies, while the prime minister is in charge of day-to-day government operations.
Notwithstanding Prime Minister Borne’s accomplishments during her 20 months in power, Macron has solicited recommendations from influential personalities such as Bayrou, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, and former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe to reinvigorate the administration.
Candidates who might run for Borne’s position include Sebastien Lecornu, the armed forces minister, and Julien Denormandie, the former agricultural minister, both of whom have connections to Macron but embrace from different political ideologies.
This multitude of scenarios could serve to exacerbate tensions and sabotage unity within the Macron administration.