Republican Party Outcry Over Bruno Le Maire's Appointment to Ministry of Armed Forces

The appointment of Bruno Le Maire as Minister of the Armed Forces in the newly formed Lecornu government has sparked significant internal backlash within France’s Republican Party (LR). Party president Bruno Retailleau voiced strong dissatisfaction, convening an urgent strategic committee meeting to address concerns over the government’s composition. This decision comes after a majority within LR agreed to participate in the government, but many members remain outraged by Le Maire’s inclusion, especially as he left LR in 2017 to join President Macron's administration.

Retailleau and party members criticized the absence of new LR figures in the government, highlighting rumors about potential additions like François-Xavier Bellamy and Othman Nasrou that went unrealized, which frustrated grassroots militants who fear electoral repercussions. David Lisnard, vice-president of LR, threatened to resign amid complaints that the party had not consulted its members, warning against the perception of complicity with Macron’s policies.

The tension is further fueled by recent contentious government moves, such as abandoning Article 49.3 on the budget and introducing a financial asset tax, which LR members see as a betrayal. The appointment of Le Maire is seen as a tipping point reflecting growing discontent and questions over party loyalty and direction. Some members criticized Le Maire for his role in increasing national debt and alleged disregard for public concerns.

With political stakes high, LR faces internal strife and uncertainty about its future positioning as it approaches the upcoming government policy declaration by Prime Minister Lecornu.