France"s PM Michel Barnier faces challenges in gaining legitimacy

Michel Barnier, appointed as France's Prime Minister on September 5, faces significant challenges in establishing his legitimacy. His consultations with key political figures have highlighted the limited political space he has to operate within, particularly due to the influence of the right-wing factions, including the far-right Rassemblement National (RN). The RN, led by Marine Le Pen, is pushing for early legislative elections, which complicates Barnier's position further. The conservative Les Républicains (LR), to which Barnier belongs, are exerting pressure for a right-wing policy agenda focused on security and immigration. Laurent Wauquiez, the president of LR in the Assemblée Nationale, has shifted from supporting the government to actively seeking the Interior Minister position, indicating a desire for more influence. This shift reflects the right's attempt to regain power after years of marginalization, but it also risks alienating voters who may lean towards the far-right. The left, feeling disenfranchised after the recent elections, has adopted a radical opposition stance, threatening to vote against Barnier's government. Socialist leaders have declined invitations to join the government, further complicating Barnier's efforts to build a coalition. The left's perception of a 'denial of democracy' after their electoral success adds to the political tension. Barnier's predicament is exacerbated by the dissolution of the Assemblée Nationale, leaving him without a clear mandate from either the president or Parliament. His political lineage does not provide him with the necessary legitimacy, as LR's poor performance in the elections has left him vulnerable to challenges from both the right and left.