Legislative setbacks and widespread riots mark the end of a stormy 20 months in office for borne

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has resigned from her position after facing numerous challenges during her tumultuous 20-month tenure. The 63-year-old Prime Minister announced her resignation on Tuesday, expressing her willingness to act as a caretaker head of government until President Emmanuel Macron selects a successor. The decision comes in the wake of legislative setbacks and widespread disturbances, including riots, that have plagued France since Borne assumed office in May 2022.

A meeting lasting approximately an hour at the Elysee Palace concluded with Borne tendering her resignation, which was subsequently accepted by President Macron. In response to Borne’s departure, Macron praised her dedication, stating in a tweet, “Madam Prime Minister, dear Elisabeth Borne, your work in the service of our nation has been exemplary every day. You implemented our project with the courage, commitment, and determination of women of states. With all my heart, thank you.”

Borne, who served as the third Prime Minister under Macron’s presidency and the second woman to hold the position, will act as a caretaker until Macron designates a new leader. The resignation raises questions about the stability of Macron’s government, particularly considering that Borne’s departure is part of a broader pattern, with Macron having had three Prime Ministers since assuming power in 2017.

The challenges faced by Borne’s government include a significant defeat on a key piece of immigration legislation in December, contributing to the perception of a government in crisis. The legislation, supported by Macron, sought to enhance France’s ability to deport certain foreigners. Despite concessions made to right-wing opposition groups, the government’s defeat added to the difficulties of Macron’s administration.

Opinion polls indicate that Macron’s Renaissance Party is trailing far-right leader Marine Le Pen by a significant margin for the upcoming June EU election. Borne’s resignation is anticipated to trigger a major government reshuffle, with several key lawmakers being considered as potential replacements.

Among the candidates are Education Minister Gabriel Attal and Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, both of whom could become France’s youngest-ever prime minister. Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire and former Agriculture Minister Julien Denormandie are also mentioned as possible options in the evolving political landscape.