Macron Appoints Michel Barnier as France's New Prime Minister

Barnier, a veteran conservative and former Brexit negotiator, faces the challenge of forming a stable government amid a divided parliament.

Barnier's appointment ends a nearly two-month political deadlock following legislative elections with no clear majority.
Marine Le Pen's National Rally party refuses to join the new government but will judge Barnier's policies before opposing.
The left-wing New Popular Front, which won the most seats, accuses Macron of undermining democracy by not appointing their candidate.
Barnier, at 73, becomes the oldest prime minister in modern French history, succeeding 35-year-old Gabriel Attal.
Key tasks ahead include addressing budgetary challenges and navigating a highly polarized National Assembly.