FRANCE SEES ITS YOUNGEST AND FIRST OPENLY GAY PM
Gabriel Attal was named Tuesday as France’s youngest-ever prime minister, as President Emmanuel Macron seeks a fresh start for the rest of his term amid growing political pressure from the far right.
Attal, 34, rose to prominence as the government spokesman then education minister and had polled as the most popular minister in the outgoing government. He is France’s first openly gay prime minister.
His predecessor, Elisabeth Borne, resigned Monday following recent political turmoil over an immigration law that strengthens the government’s ability to deport foreigners.
Macron’s office announced the appointment in a statement. He will work with Attal to name a new government in the coming days, though some key ministers are expected to continue in their posts.
“I know I can count on your energy and your commitment,” Macron posted on X in a message to Attal. The president made a reference to Attal reviving the “spirit of 2017,” when Macron shook up French politics and shot to a surprise victory as France’s youngest-ever president on a pro-business centrist platform aimed at reviving one of the world’s biggest economies.
The 46-year-old president has shifted rightward on security and migration issues since then, notably as farright rival Marine Le Pen and her anti-immigration, anti-Islam National Rally have gained political influence.
Macron’s second term lasts until 2027, and he is constitutionally barred from a third consecutive term.
His critics from both left and right took aim at Attal for his limited experience, his Paris upbringing seen as out of touch with people struggling in the provinces, and his loyalty to the president.
Under the French political system, the prime minister is appointed by the president and accountable to the parliament. The prime minister is in charge of implementing domestic policy, notably economic measures, and coordinating the government’s team of ministers.