France Names Sébastien Lecornu as New Prime Minister After Bayrou Ouster

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Sébastien Lecornu as the country’s new prime minister, following the resignation of François Bayrou after a bruising confidence vote in the National Assembly.
Lecornu, Macron’s former Minister of the Armed Forces and a longtime political ally, becomes the fifth prime minister of Macron’s second term — a period marked by volatility, economic headwinds, and eroding centrist support.

“We must govern with independence, unity, and strength,” Lecornu said in his first remarks as prime minister. “France needs clarity and stability more than ever.”

Background: Bayrou Falls After Budget Blowback
Bayrou, who served just nine months, resigned after losing a confidence vote tied to his controversial 2026 austerity budget, which aimed to rein in France’s soaring €3.3 trillion public debt. Lawmakers from both the left and right united to reject the proposal, triggering his ouster and forcing Macron to act swiftly.
His predecessor, Michel Barnier, had resigned after just three months in office making Lecornu the latest appointee in what has become a revolving door at Matignon.
Lecornu’s Challenge: Unity Amid Division
Lecornu inherits a fractured parliament, fragile public confidence, and an economy teetering under debt pressure. While centrists applauded the appointment, opposition leaders condemned the decision.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of France Unbowed, said Lecornu’s nomination “proves nothing has changed.”

Marine Le Pen, head of the far-right National Rally, declared it “Macron’s last gamble to cling to power.”

Political analysts say Lecornu’s pragmatic style and defense credentials may help him project stability, but warn that without a broader coalition or electoral reset, governance will remain turbulent.
Who Is Sébastien Lecornu?

Age: 39

Background: Former Macron defense minister; previously held positions in local government and under President Hollande’s administration

Known for: Loyalty to Macron, technocratic style, and calm demeanor during crises

Challenges ahead: Navigating the budget battle, restoring public trust, and managing France’s EU relationships