French President Macron has chosen Elizabeth Bourne as the new prime minister. Earlier today, outgoing Prime Minister Jan Castex tendered his resignation, as was expected, to clear the way for Bourne.
This is the second time that France has held the position of prime minister. Thirty years ago, Edith Cresson was the last woman to hold this position. She is happy that she is being pursued. “It is time for a woman to take up this position again and I know Ms. Bourne is a special person with a lot of experience. It’s a very good choice,” Cresson said in BFM’s first response.
Minister
Born, 61, was a longtime member of the Social Democratic Socialist Party, until she joined Macron La Republic in 2017.
In previous ministries, she served as Minister of Transport (2017-2020) and Labor (2020-2022) among others. As Minister of Transport, Bourne introduced reforms to the French railways under great protest. During her tenure as Minister of Labor, unemployment in France fell to its lowest level in 15 years.
As prime minister, Bourne now holds the second highest office in French politics. She runs the government and Macron cannot dismiss her. However, she can be removed from her position by the Assembly.
Parliamentary elections
Borne will likely announce its government later this week. In a speech today, she mentioned the purchasing power of the French and climate change as important items on the agenda. Furthermore, she dedicated her nomination to “All Girls” Who Want to Pursue Dreams.
Macron was re-elected president late last month. He received 58.54 percent of the vote, defeating rival Marine Le Pen.
Parliamentary elections will be held in France next month. These are central to Macron’s policy plans. With an experienced Bourne at his side, he hopes to attract more voters.
This is what Macron’s oath looked like:
