Emmanuel Macron in three points

Le Regard Libre N° 39 - Jonas Follonier

Much has been written about Emmanuel Macron's first year as president. Once a fellow traveler of social-democrat François Hollande, now a candidate of the elite elected under the label of a new movement in an anti-elite country, the man has much to fascinate. One thing is certain: he possesses the stature of a statesman, and can even respond calmly and professionally to disrespectful journalists such as Jean-Jacques Bourdin and Edwy Plenel, «ce fou et ce crétin» ("this fool and this cretin") as Alain Finkielkraut put it on the French TV channel "Le Monde". Paris Première.

But for once, let’s talk about the substance and set aside the style and the rhetoric. I’ll briefly touch on three points here that seem to point to a sound policy for France—and it’s about time. Three points which, as you may have guessed, would not necessarily find favor with the mainstream. Otherwise, what’s the point? Le Regard Libre?

First point: governing by decree. This method is essential for implementing reforms, such as the one at the SNCF. Mitterrand had done it before him; De Gaulle had done it before him. With all due respect to the Socialist Party and the Republicans, who always find something to criticize about Mr. Macron.

Second point: his firm stance on Notre-Dame-des-Landes. It’s heartening to see that the government still has the authority to condemn the rejection of civilization. Now the leader d’On the Move Don't give in to the whims of a few fringe elements. Macron: Did you say "weak"?

Third point: his relationship with Donald Trump. Admittedly, the U.S. president does whatever he wants. Admittedly, he’s a boor, a lout. Admittedly, little Emmanuel isn’t going to convince him to back down from his positions on the nuclear or climate treaties. All the more reason not to alienate him. The French leader has understood this well, and his idea of «European sovereignty» resonates with the American president, who certainly cannot be said to have any affection for China.

Write to the author: jonas.follonier@leregardlibre.com