Lecornu Unveils New Cabinet Amid Mixed Political Reactions

On October 5, 2025, France's newly appointed Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu revealed the first wave of ministerial appointments after 26 days in office, signaling the official formation of his government. Notable appointments include Roland Lescure as Minister of Economy and Bruno Le Maire transitioning to the Ministry of the Armed Forces, while key figures like Gérald Darmanin and Élisabeth Borne retained their positions.

The government's composition has sparked diverse political reactions. Bruno Retailleau, Minister of the Interior and a prominent Republican (LR) figure, expressed clear disappointment, accusing the cabinet of lacking the promised break from past administrations and emphasizing an excessive presence of Macronist politicians. Retailleau specifically criticized the appointment of Bruno Le Maire to the Armed Forces portfolio as "unacceptable," reflecting unease within the LR party. This discontent was echoed by other Republicans, who view the government as dominated by Macronist elements.

From the left, Eric Coquerel, head of the Finance Commission for La France Insoumise (LFI), condemned the government as a "denial of democracy," critiquing the recycling of the same politicians and calling for new elections. Jean-Luc Mélenchon further mocked the political turmoil, labeling the scenario a "circus" and criticizing Retailleau’s threats of instability shortly after the new government’s announcement.

Locally, the announcement by Lecornu left political leaders in the Indre region largely indifferent. Gil Avérous, mayor of Châteauroux, was notably excluded from the cabinet, and many regional politicians showed little enthusiasm towards the new lineup. Nonetheless, some LR figures such as Senator Frédérique Gerbaud expressed support for the party’s continued participation in the government, aligning with Retailleau’s strategic stance despite reservations.

As tensions simmer across the political spectrum, several parties have already hinted at motions of censure against the new government. The overall political climate remains charged as France watches Lecornu’s government navigate early challenges.