In a bold move to underscore his commitment to law and order, the newly appointed French Prime Minister, Gabriel Attal, embarked on his first full day in office with a visit to a police station. At the station in Ermont, Val-d’Oise, Attal delivered a resolute message promising security for “responsible working French people” who, he asserted, yearned for tranquility.
Addressing the crucial role of the police, Attal proclaimed on Wednesday, “There is no security without our police,” setting the tone for his strategy to counter the far-right movement led by Marine Le Pen.
“People expect us to continue our total effort for their security,” Attal emphasized, highlighting the nationwide desire for order and tranquility. He acknowledged the role of families in establishing authority in society, stating, “I don’t see a society without order and rules. So it’s also the responsibility of families, and clearly the responsibility of schools as well. It’s the responsibility of society as a whole.”
The 34-year-old Attal, known for his political acumen and previous role as the education minister, secured the position of France’s youngest-ever prime minister this week. His appointment, orchestrated by centrist President Emmanuel Macron, aims to invigorate Macron’s second term and thwart potential gains by Le Pen’s far-right National Rally party in the upcoming European elections.
Attal is anticipated to announce a new government by the week’s end, with the expectation that Gérald Darmanin, a hardliner who accompanied him during the police station visit, will retain the position of interior minister.
In his initial 24 hours in office, Attal revealed his approach to connect with voters who have leaned towards the far-right or abstained from elections. He demonstrated not only authority but also a willingness to listen empathetically to the struggles of low and middle-income workers.
Adopting a strategy from Nicolas Sarkozy’s 2007 presidential campaign, Attal appealed to hard-working, often low-paid French citizens who “wake up early.” His appointment is seen as a way to broaden Macron’s voter base beyond the higher-income and retiree demographic.
The media is portraying Attal as a more relatable face of centrist politics, emphasizing his status as France’s first openly gay prime minister. He has previously shared personal experiences, including being a victim of bullying.
During a visit to flood-affected areas in northern France, Attal aimed to convey empathy, countering accusations of arrogance often directed at Macron. He assured villagers, “No one will forget you,” and expressed solidarity with those experiencing flood damage in the village of Clairmarais.
Attal’s political journey started in the centrist wing of the Socialist party before joining Macron’s centrist project. Notably, as education minister, he implemented policies that resonated with the right, drawing criticism from the National Rally. His proactive stance as budget minister addressed concerns about high taxes, emphasizing transparency in public spending.
Facing public discontent over rising living costs and last year’s contested pension reform, Macron’s approval ratings have suffered, impacting polling for the European parliament election where his party trails behind Le Pen’s. Attal, however, has consistently polled as one of France’s most popular politicians in recent months.
Brigitte Macron, the president’s wife, endorsed Attal on a TV program, describing him as “a man of action” on Tuesday.