

How to go from hero to zero, with Emmanuel Macron and Angela Merkel
24 snips Oct 17, 2025
Join John Kampfner, a keen observer of German politics, Nick Vinocour, who navigates the twists of EU affairs, and Clea Caulcutt, reporting live from Paris, as they dissect the swift fall of Emmanuel Macron and Angela Merkel from political grace. They explore how rising extremism is reshaping Europe’s landscape, the implications of failed centrist leadership, and the consequences of the Hungary espionage scandal. Can the centrist political framework survive or is it crumbling under public dissent and radical alternatives?
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Macron's Fall From Reforming Heights
- Emmanuel Macron began as a bold European reformer but now appears weakened and isolated domestically.
- His diminished domestic standing undercuts his ability to drive EU ambitions and major files.
Franco-German Engine Losing Power
- Macron and Merkel were meant to form a Franco-German duet driving EU policy and reform.
- With Merkel gone and Macron weakened, that traditional Franco-German engine is failing.
Le Cornu Reappointment Backfires
- Clea Caulcutt described Macron reappointing Sébastien Le Cornu after he had just resigned.
- That move hardened opposition and forced Macron to suspend his flagship pension reform.