Prime Minister Lecornu Plans Government Reshuffle Ahead of March 2026 Municipal Elections

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is considering an adjustment to his government following the adoption of the 2026 budget, with the upcoming municipal elections on March 15 and 22 serving as a potential catalyst for these changes. Culture Minister Rachida Dati, who is running for mayor of Paris, has announced her intention to leave the government to devote herself fully to her electoral campaign. Additionally, Sports Minister Marina Ferrari and Rurality Minister Michel Fournier are candidates in the municipal elections for Aix-les-Bains and the Vosges, respectively. Health Minister Stéphanie Rist is currently involved in a second-round legislative election in Loiret and has pledged to resign from her ministerial position if she loses.

Lecornu has twice invoked article 49.3 to pass parts of the budget and now faces a new motion of censure, reflecting ongoing political tensions. The government spokesperson, Maud Bregeon, declined to comment on any supposed cabinet changes, emphasizing that reshuffle decisions rest with the President and Prime Minister. This potential reshuffle underscores the close political interplay between government composition and upcoming local electoral contests in France.