In a dramatic turn of events, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s government collapsed just 14 hours after its formation, marking another setback for President Emmanuel Macron’s administration. Lecornu, a 39-year-old loyalist and Macron’s last hope to stabilize French politics, faced immediate opposition from the conservative Republicans party (LR), led by Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. The LR, a crucial part of the center-right alliance, withdrew its support after Lecornu appointed former finance minister Bruno Le Maire as defense minister—a move seen as a betrayal by LR. Le Maire, who had previously defected to Macron’s camp, is blamed by LR for France’s spiraling debt. Retailleau’s abrupt withdrawal, announced on social media shortly after the cabinet was revealed, left Lecornu’s government in shambles. Macron granted Lecornu a 48-hour reprieve to negotiate with LR, but the situation remains precarious. This political instability underscores the challenges Macron faces as his popularity wanes and the 2027 presidential election looms. With allies distancing themselves and the center-right alliance fracturing, Macron’s era appears to be nearing its end.