French Right Divided Over Strategy for New Government Formation

Laurent Wauquiez and Bruno Retailleau clash on the role of the right in shaping the next government after Barnier's ousting.

Laurent Wauquiez has called for a government program 'as right-wing as possible' to address France's political instability and avoid further chaos.
Wauquiez blames Marine Le Pen and Jean-Luc Mélenchon for the crisis following their support for the no-confidence motion that collapsed Michel Barnier's government.
A fierce rivalry between Wauquiez and Bruno Retailleau has emerged, with Wauquiez favoring potential negotiations with the left, while Retailleau insists on maintaining a strong right-wing presence in the government.
Retailleau's allies criticize Wauquiez's approach, arguing it could weaken the right's influence and pave the way for greater leftist involvement in the government.
The internal divisions within the French right are seen as part of a broader struggle for leadership ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with both Wauquiez and Retailleau positioning themselves as contenders.