Economist Podcasts Grand Barnier: France’s new prime minister
14 snips
Sep 6, 2024 
Sophie Pedder, the Paris bureau chief for The Economist, offers insights into the tumultuous shift in French politics with the appointment of Prime Minister Michel Barnier. Adam O'Neill discusses the evolving strategies in the U.S. election, particularly Donald Trump's tactics against Kamala Harris. Anne Rowe shares the inspiring story of stonemason Simon Verity, highlighting his craftsmanship and legacy in historic architecture. The conversation dives into the challenges of governance and the intricacies of political campaigning, making for a compelling listen.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Macron Appoints Barnier
- French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Michel Barnier as prime minister after a two-month search.
- Barnier, a center-right veteran and former Brexit negotiator, faces the challenge of unifying a fractured parliament.
Barnier's First Challenge
- Barnier's immediate task is to create a budget by October 1st, addressing France's challenging public finances.
- This involves finding savings and cuts, an unpopular move given the current economic climate.
Uncharted Territory
- This situation marks uncharted territory for France, with a potential power struggle between the president and prime minister.
- The blurred lines of power create uncertainty about the government's direction and stability.