“France’s Le Pen Vows to Obstruct New Government”

France’s right-wing leader Marine Le Pen declared her intention to obstruct any actions taken by a potential new government, casting uncertainty over Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu’s capacity to address the deepening political crisis through a coalition cabinet. President Emmanuel Macron is grappling with the most severe domestic turmoil of his tenure, as the deadline looms for the formation of a functional government by Wednesday evening. The nation has been ensnared in a political stalemate since Macron’s decision to hold snap elections last year in a bid to strengthen his authority, resulting instead in a hung parliament and increased representation for the far-right. Le Pen’s National Rally, the largest party in parliament, has called on Macron to either trigger fresh snap elections or step down. In a statement on Wednesday, Le Pen vowed to obstruct the operations of any new cabinet, stating, “I will vote against everything,” after her party declined to engage in negotiations to resolve the crisis. Addressing attendees at a livestock fair in central France, she likened the French political sphere to a “rodeo”, describing it as a constant struggle to maintain control while facing challenges. The far-right group led by Le Pen sees the upcoming presidential elections in 2027 as their prime opportunity to seize power, particularly with Macron ineligible to run. Following the snap 2024 election, the legislative body has witnessed the dismissal of two prime ministers amidst a deadlock over the upcoming year’s austerity budget. Lecornu stepped down on Monday following criticism of his new cabinet lineup, although Macron convinced him to remain in office until Wednesday evening in a bid to resolve the impasse. Should Lecornu fail to find a resolution, Macron hinted at assuming responsibility, potentially signaling early parliamentary elections. The stance of the Socialists, a pivotal group in parliament, regarding any potential compromise remains uncertain.