Michel Barnier Named French PM to End Political Stalemate

The appointment of Michel Barnier, the former EU negotiator on Brexit, as France's new prime minister is an attempt to break the political impasse that began in July.

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After Macron's statement, 73-year-old Michel Barnier will be subject to a vote of no confidence in the lower chamber of parliament before assuming full authority.

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The July elections in France produced a hung parliament, meaning that no party was able to obtain the 289 members required for a majority. This led to a political impasse.

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The left-wing New Popular Front alliance won the election, with Macron's "Together" bloc placing second.

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Experienced politician Barnier has served in four cabinet positions before, including minister of agriculture and minister of international affairs.

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Following the inconclusive results of the July election, Macron accepted the resignation of previous prime minister Gabriel Attal, placing France under caretaker rule.

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With a conservative outlook, Barnier's leadership might usher in a new era in French politics as he attempts to bring the divided parliament together.

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