Macron's Political Maneuvering: Strategies to Calm the Crisis in France

In an effort to ease political instability in France, President Emmanuel Macron is currently exploring the possibility of a non-aggression pact with moderate parties of the center-left and center-right. This alliance would consider some of their demands, while in return, the parties would promise not to disapprove of Macron's next prime minister. This is the latest step following the dismissal of Michel Barnier as prime minister after only three months in office. In intense discussions with party leaders at the Elysee Palace on Tuesday, Macron discussed their proposals and the candidates they would not support for the prime minister position. Notably, left-wing politicians oppose the centrist François Bayrou, who has long been known as a supporter of Macron. The far-right, the National Rally (RN), and the far-left, La France Insoumise (LFI), which together with other left-wing parties voted against Barnier, were excluded from these discussions. Such a non-aggression pact would be far less binding than a full coalition and weaker than the previous power-sharing agreement between Macron's party Renaissance and the conservative Les Républicains (LR). However, a loose consensus on basic policies could be reached, while controversial issues are set aside. This could enable the new government to accomplish important tasks like passing the 2025 budget. Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon stated on Wednesday that the consultations so far are unlikely to result in a new coalition. The change of prime minister remains a priority issue, and various candidates are being speculated about. The political scene remains turbulent as Macron strives to establish a government without the support of the RN.