The announcement came late Friday, following a meeting at the Élysée Palace with leaders of France’s main political parties. Leaders of the far-right and far-left were not invited.
Lecornu had originally resigned on October 6, barely a day after unveiling his new cabinet on October 5. He first assumed the prime minister’s office on September 9. At 39, Lecornu is considered a close ally of President Macron. He became the fifth Prime Minister since Macron’s re-election in 2022 and the third following last year’s parliamentary dissolution. Reports suggest that discontent over cabinet formation prompted his brief resignation.
Lecornu’s Unexpected Return
Lecornu’s comeback surprised many, especially after he told national TV just two days ago that he was “not after the job” and that his “mission was over.”
It remains uncertain whether he can successfully form a new government, but urgency is critical: he faces a Monday deadline to present the 2026 budget to parliament.
The Élysée stated that Macron had “asked Lecornu to form a government”, granting him full autonomy to act.
Lecornu later posted on X, stating he had accepted the role “out of duty to ensure France has a budget by year-end and to address the everyday concerns of our citizens.”
Earlier this week, he described himself on French TV as a “soldier-monk.” As he resumes work forming a new government, he vowed:
“I will do everything I can to succeed in this mission.”
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