Sabastiens Lecornu to resign again after reappointment as French prime minister

Since Macron’s snap elections in June 2024, his centrist coalition has lacked a stable majority in the National Assembly. The result has been recurring gridlock, bitter negotiations, and successive prime ministers unable to pass critical legislation.

In that fraught setting, Macron appears to have chosen continuity over experimentation. By reappointing a loyalist like Lecornu, Macron secures someone he trusts, who is less likely to pivot away from the Élysée’s priorities. Observers read the move as a signal that Macron feels he has limited room to maneuver politically.

Lecornu’s original government collapsed almost immediately — within 14 hours — amid backlash over his initial cabinet lineup, particularly criticisms that it lacked fresh faces and seemed too aligned with Macron’s inner circle.

Despite that, Macron re‑appointed him just days later. The reappointment is largely seen as an effort to stabilize the crisis quickly. Macron’s calculation may be: better to use a known quantity who has already navigated key political relationships, rather than roll the dice on an unknown alternative.

Lecornu himself cast his acceptance in terms of duty: “I accept — out of duty — the mission entrusted to me” to present a budget before year’s end and “respond to the daily life issues” of the French people.

Concessions and New Cabinet Composition

In forming his second government, Lecornu sought to temper some of the criticisms that felled his first effort. His new cabinet draws from not only political insiders but also technocrats and figures from civil society.

The Élysée line is that Macron has given Lecornu a wide berth to negotiate with parties and build consensus — though critics argue the cabinet still remains heavily under Macron’s influence.

Why Lecornu Might Resign Again:

Reappointment does not guarantee longevity, especially in France’s present political terrain. Below are the key fault lines that threaten Lecornu’s tenure.

Right from the start, both far‑right (RN) and far‑left (LFI / France Unbowed) parties have pledged to submit no-confidence motions.

A successful no-confidence vote would force Lecornu’s resignation (or trigger the collapse of the government). Given the fragmented legislature, his government remains vulnerable.

Perhaps the most immediate test comes with the upcoming budget, which must be presented under tight deadlines. Lecornu is targeting a reduction of the deficit to 4.7 % of GDP by end‑2026 through a mix of spending cuts and revenue measures.