President Macron’s appointment of Michel Barnier as the new prime minister of France has sparked controversy and political turmoil in the country. Barnier, a member of the Republicans and former chief negotiator for the European Commission, is facing backlash from the left for not being representative of the leftist alliance that won the most votes in snap elections.
As France struggles to stay within deficit limits and agree on a budget, this appointment has raised questions about the government’s ability to address pressing issues. Will this controversy hinder progress, or will Macron and Barnier be able to navigate the new political landscape?
Join presenter James Bays and guests Jacques Reland, a senior research fellow, Rainbow Murray, a professor of Politics specializing in French politics, and Diane de Vignemont, a historian and political journalist, as they discuss the implications of Barnier’s appointment and the future of French politics.