Bruno Retailleau Declares the End of Macronism, Sparking Controversy Within the Coalition
Bruno Retailleau's declaration of the end of macronism sparks backlash from the Renaissance party, highlighting tensions within the coalition government.
Key Points
- • Retailleau proclaims the end of macronism, attributing it to being centered on Emmanuel Macron.
- • He criticizes macronism for lacking ideological foundation and calls for a united right against LFI.
- • Members of the Renaissance party respond critically, defending macronism as a necessary political ideology.
- • President Macron emphasizes discipline within the government amidst rising tensions.
In a significant political development, Bruno Retailleau, France's Minister of the Interior and leader of the Republicans, publicly declared the end of macronism in a recent interview with *Valeurs actuelles*. Retailleau criticized the political movement as lacking ideological substance, asserting that it is primarily defined by the figure of Emmanuel Macron and will cease to exist once he steps down. He remarked, "The macronism s’achèvera avec Emmanuel Macron, tout simplement," highlighting a sentiment that macronism lacks cohesion and effectiveness beyond its leader.
Retailleau's comments were particularly pointed against Macron's signature "en même temps" philosophy, which aims to blend left and right political ideologies. He described this approach as leading to political impotence, emphasizing that his role in the current coalition is not an endorsement of macronism but a commitment to countering leftist policies, particularly those of Jean-Luc Mélenchon’s La France Insoumise (LFI). He called for a united right to form a "shock battalion" against LFI in the upcoming municipal elections set for March 2026.
The response from members of the Renaissance party, which is aligned with Macron, has been swift and critical. Elisabeth Borne, the Minister of Education, labeled Retailleau's remarks as "inacceptable" for someone within a coalition government, asserting that such statements undermine collective efforts against extremist political factions. Other Renaissance members echoed her concerns, defending macronism as a vital political ideology that fosters stability in France, particularly during times of crisis. Borne underscored the necessity of mutual respect within the coalition for effective governance, referring to Retailleau’s comments as divisive.
Additionally, Retailleau mentioned his skepticism concerning the candidacy of Jordan Bardella from the National Rally, questioning whether voters can trust an inexperienced candidate. The tensions created by these remarks have prompted President Macron to remind his ministers of the importance of focusing on their respective responsibilities and the need for discipline within the government.
As the political landscape in France shifts with the upcoming elections, Retailleau's critique highlights growing rifts within the coalition, raising questions about the future of macronism and the potential impact on governmental cohesion.