Paul Taylor, Senior Visiting Fellow at the European Policy Centre, discussed the ongoing political turmoil in France and the reappointment of Sébastien Lecornu as Prime Minister. Taylor noted that a power struggle is unfolding between mainstream parties, reluctant to impose unpopular austerity measures, and President Emmanuel Macron, who may ultimately dissolve Parliament and call a snap election.<br />The prospect of a far-right government emerging from such an election is causing concern across Europe and beyond. According to Taylor, Lecornu is likely to attempt forming a neutral, technocratic government that can make concessions to both the left and right in order to secure passage of the 2026 budget and avoid a snap vote. However, it remains uncertain whether these compromises will be enough to significantly reduce the budget deficit or reassure financial markets.<br />
