Gabriel Attal has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of France, making history as the country’s youngest and first openly gay head of government. President Emmanuel Macron announced the decision on Tuesday, following the resignation of Elisabeth Borne from the position. At 34 years old, Attal, who previously served as the education minister, takes on the role amid expectations of a cabinet reshuffle.
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Elisabeth Borne stepped down from her position after serving less than two years in office. In a statement, the presidential office confirmed the appointment, stating, “The president of the republic appointed Mr Gabriel Attal prime minister and tasked him with forming a government.”
Sylvain Maillard, leader of Macron’s Renaissance party, extended congratulations to Attal on social media, expressing confidence in his ability to uphold their shared values and execute their political agenda.
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Gabriel Attal, a close ally of Emmanuel Macron and former government spokesman during the Covid pandemic, is widely regarded as one of France’s most popular politicians, according to recent opinion polls.
Known for his adeptness in handling media appearances and parliamentary sessions, Attal assumes the role of the youngest prime minister in French history and the first openly gay individual to hold the position, paralleling Macron’s historic entry into office in 2017 as the youngest leader in modern French history.
Emmanuel Macron’s decision to appoint Attal is seen as an effort to bring renewed energy to the government, particularly in the face of a more turbulent parliament since the loss of the absolute majority in 2022. Despite the change in leadership, some opposition leaders remain skeptical, with Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure suggesting that the policies may remain consistent regardless of the individual in power.