Interview – How to analyze Emmanuel Macron’s choice to appoint Michel Barnier, from the LR, to Matignon? Elements of response with political scientist Pascal Perrineau
White smoke at the Elysée, black anger at the New Popular Front. After two months of procrastination, consultations, phone calls and discussions, Emmanuel Macron has finally appointed Michel Barnier to Matignon. The man who was four times minister, twice European commissioner and chief Brexit negotiator for the EU will take office in the afternoon to prepare his government. While this choice was rather well received by the majority of political parties from the centre to the far right, it has aroused the anger of the New Popular Front, which came out on top in the legislative elections. Analysis by political scientist Pascal Perrineau.
Does Michel Barnier’s choice surprise you?
Pascal Perrineau : Yes and no. Michel Barnier’s name has only been mentioned very recently. In this respect, it can be considered a surprise. But if we look at what he represents politically, then it is not surprising. For several days, we have noted that the choice was leaning towards a man of the right, capable of uniting even the presidential camp, or even the moderate left. The president was clearly looking for someone with sufficient political clout to form a national coalition. In this respect, appointing Michel Barnier to Matignon has nothing to do with(…) - 20minutes
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