Media: French far right wields significant influence over PM Barnier, Macron

Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN), which placed third in France's snap legislative elections this summer, now wields significant influence as the power behind Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government.

Following a tumultuous snap election that resulted in a fragmented parliament, President Emmanuel Macron appointed former Brexit negotiator Barnier as prime minister. However, the future of both Barnier and Macron hinges on the support of the RN, according to opposition lawmakers and analysts, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Lucie Castets, the pick of the leftist alliance that won the July election but was passed over by Macron, commented, “Today, we have a prime minister who is entirely dependent on the RN. By doing so, the president has entered into a form of cohabitation with the RN,” referring to the rare situation where a French president must govern alongside a prime minister from a rival party. Macron's prolonged search for a prime minister aimed to find someone who would not be quickly dismissed and who would protect his legislative achievements—criteria that gave the RN considerable leverage over the appointment.

While the RN tentatively supported Barnier's nomination, they have signaled that they could withdraw their backing if their demands on immigration, security, and economic issues are not addressed. “We will use all political means available if things do not change in the coming weeks,” said Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally (RN). Marine Tondelier, leader of the French Green party, criticised Macron for giving Le Pen a role akin to Julius Caesar in a gladiatorial arena, with the power to approve or reject his prime ministerial candidate. “It was her approval that was sought,” she commented on TF1. 

Olivier Faure, president of the Socialist Party, noted that Barnier was fully aware his position depended on Le Pen’s support, and added that no members of his party would join the government. “The extreme right now decides who will be in power,” he stated on France Inter.

RN lawmaker Laurent Jacobelli attempted to downplay the far right's influence over the new government. “We are clearly in the opposition ... We are not giving anyone the green light,” he said on France 2. “We will not be the force driving France into chaos by opposing everything systematically.” Attention will now turn to Barnier’s cabinet appointments, with potential protests by the left planned for September 7. 

Eurasia Group, a political analysis firm, noted that while some ministers from the outgoing government might stay on, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire is unlikely to be among them. “Barnier’s choice for the finance ministry will be crucial in reassuring Brussels and financial markets that France can navigate its current political and fiscal crisis,” the firm said. Eurasia also emphasised the significant influence of the RN over Barnier. 

“Marine Le Pen is a key figure for Barnier’s success or short-term survival,” it added.