Sébastien Lecornu Unveils New Government with Key Ministerial Appointments

On October 5, 2025, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced the first part of his new government, presenting a cabinet mix of experienced and new faces. The announcement included 18 ministers, with 13 ministers retaining their roles from the previous government. Notably, Bruno Le Maire returned to government as Minister of the Armed Forces, succeeding Lecornu himself, while Roland Lescure was appointed Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Energy Sovereignty.

Elisabeth Borne was reaffirmed as Minister of State for National Education, Higher Education, and Research, and Manuel Valls continued as Minister of State for Overseas Territories. Gérald Darmanin remains Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals. Other significant reappointments include Bruno Retailleau at the Interior Ministry, Catherine Vautrin overseeing Labor, Health, Solidarity, Families, Autonomy, and Disabilities, and Rachida Dati taking charge of Culture despite her candidacy for the Paris mayoralty and a looming corruption trial.

New additions to the cabinet feature Aurore Bergé, named Minister Delegate for Gender Equality and Government Spokesperson, and Éric Woerth, returning as Minister of Territorial Planning. Jean-Noël Barrot continues as Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, while Agnès Pannier-Runacher remains Minister of Ecological Transition. Mathieu Lefevre was appointed Minister Delegate for Relations with Parliament.

The government reshuffle was presented by Emmanuel Moulin, Secretary General of the Presidency, and reflects Lecornu's promise of change alongside continuity. The full cabinet is anticipated to reach up to 25 members, with the remaining appointments to be announced after Lecornu's policy declaration on October 7. The first full Council of Ministers under this new cabinet convened on October 6.

These appointments carry implications for France's political and economic direction, signaling a blend of steadfast leadership and fresh perspectives in critical portfolios such as defense, economy, justice, and social equality.