Macron Picks Séjourné for EU Commissioner After Breton’s Résignation.
French President Emmanuel Macron has made a significant political move by nominating his foreign minister, Stéphane Séjourné, as France’s next European Union (EU) Commissioner. The nomination follows the sudden resignation of Thierry Breton, who was serving as one of the EU’s key commissioners, overseeing industrial policy, defense, and the Digital Services Act.
Breton’s Resignation: A Power Play?
The resignation of Thierry Breton came just hours before the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, was set to announce her new team of commissioners for the next five-year cycle. In a letter posted on social media platform X, Breton criticized a private deal between Macron and von der Leyen that allegedly sidelined him in favor of a more powerful role for France in the Commission. Breton accused von der Leyen of excluding him from key discussions, stating, “A few days ago, you asked France to withdraw my name for personal reasons that you have never discussed directly with me.”
Séjourné’s Nomination: A Strategic Move
Séjourné’s appointment was prepared in advance during discussions between Macron and von der Leyen, as reported by sources familiar with the matter. Macron’s office has expressed confidence that Séjourné, a former leader of the Renew group in the European Parliament and a close ally of Macron, meets all the qualifications necessary for the role. Macron has long championed European sovereignty and industrial autonomy, and Séjourné’s leadership is expected to align with these goals.
Disruptions to the EU Commission
Breton’s resignation comes at a delicate time for von der Leyen as she finalizes her new slate of commissioners. Several countries have switched their candidates under pressure to maintain gender balance in the Commission. Despite this disruption, von der Leyen is expected to announce her team on schedule, although Slovenia has yet to nominate its candidate due to domestic political disagreements.
Political Fallout
Breton’s departure also highlights tensions between him and von der Leyen, who had previously clashed over various policies and management styles. Breton’s resignation letter contained veiled criticism of von der Leyen’s governance, which he described as “questionable.” The EU Commission President has not commented on the specifics of the letter, but has expressed gratitude for Breton’s work during his mandate.
Séjourné’s Future in the EU
Séjourné’s nomination will need approval from the European Parliament before he can take up his post. As Macron continues to push for greater influence within the EU, Séjourné’s appointment marks a calculated move to secure a powerful role in the next Commission cycle, one that is likely to influence EU policy on industrial competitiveness, digital regulations, and defense.
Conclusion
Macron’s swift replacement of Breton with Séjourné underscores his strategic approach to consolidating France’s power within the European Union. The move not only reshapes the landscape of the EU Commission but also reveals the intricate political maneuvering behind major appointments. As Séjourné prepares to assume this crucial role, the dynamics within the EU are set for a shift, particularly in areas such as industrial policy and digital regulation.