Emmanuel Macron set a trap for Laurent Wauquiez during the reshuffle leading to the second Lecornu government. Unveiled Sunday evening, this government includes 34 ministers from civil society and politicians with more measured ambitions. This maneuver occurs amid a broader political crisis, marked by divisions within the Republicans and a poll showing shame and anger among the French.
The second Sébastien Lecornu government was appointed Sunday evening, one week after the fall of the first, following a resignation on October 6, just fourteen hours after its initial formation. Renominated on October 10, Lecornu escaped two no-confidence motions on October 16, filed by La France insoumise and the National Rally, granting a precarious reprieve to pass a budget by year-end.
At the heart of this reshuffle, Emmanuel Macron set a 'trap' for Laurent Wauquiez, leader of the Republican (LR) deputies, according to Le Figaro indiscretions. This ploy exploits internal divisions within the LR party between Wauquiez and its president, Bruno Retailleau. Retailleau chose 'text-by-text' support without participation, stripping LR ministers of their party roles, while six LR elected officials joined the government, deepening the rift. The party adopted a support-without-participation line at a political bureau meeting Saturday morning.
A Verian poll for Le Figaro reveals 53% of French people feel shame over the crisis, versus 49% anger, after over a year of blockages. Silent since summer, Macron broke his silence on October 13 in Egypt, blaming 'political forces' for the 'disorder': 'The political forces (…) are the sole responsible for this disorder.' His remarks drew criticism, with a former minister saying he 'pours oil on the fire'.
Despite the chaos, Renaissance militants remain supportive, viewing Lecornu as 'the best solution' for stability. The suspension of the retirement reform, a concession to socialists, was announced on October 14, averting censure but fueling right-wing tensions.
