Gloom Lifts in Elysee as Townhall Debates Re-Energize Macron

By Michel Rose

PARIS – During the height of France’s "yellow vest" crisis, the wife of President Emmanuel Macron and his close aides were shown the Elysee Palace’s nuclear-proof bunker as a precaution against potential attacks from anti-government protesters. This surprising disclosure reveals the level of concern within Macron’s inner circle regarding the challenges to his leadership amid widespread public discontent.

Now six weeks later, Macron appears to be regaining his footing, as opinion polls indicate a rebound in his previously diminished popularity. Engaging in a series of town hall debates with local mayors and disaffected citizens, he has re-energized his image and lifted the mood within his administration.

In Bourg-de-Peage, situated in the southern Drome region, Macron made a surprise appearance at a local debate, rolled up his shirt sleeves, and spent several hours outlining his policies aimed at fostering economic growth and job creation. One aide, who had previously worked with Macron during the 2016-2017 presidential campaign, remarked, "This was the Emmanuel Macron I remembered; the spirit from the campaign was back."

The "yellow vests," named after the high-visibility vests that French motorists are required to keep in their vehicles, initially emerged in response to fuel tax increases, which Macron later repealed. The protests quickly evolved into a broader movement against the political elite and social inequality, resulting in some of the most severe street violence in Paris seen in decades.

Despite this recent turnaround, Macron expressed caution while on a flight to Egypt, stating he still feels as though he is "walking on thin ice." Nevertheless, on the same day, 10,000 pro-government demonstrators braved the rain to counter the yellow vest protests, a notable turnout that provided reassurance to Macron’s supporters.

In another positive development for Macron, the narrative on France’s influential 24-hour news channels seems to have shifted. The news ticker on a prominent channel transformed from depicting "Macron pushed to the wall" in December to questioning "Will Macron emerge from this victorious?" just last weekend.

Even his critics have acknowledged that he handled the town hall sessions well. These sessions, part of a two-month national debate intended to influence policy-making, showcased Macron’s confidence as he navigated a range of inquiries from the audience. Damien Abad, a lawmaker from the center-right Les Republicains party, described the performance as a "rather beautiful moment," although he emphasized that the public expects more substantial answers.

Recent polls indicate a 4-point increase in Macron’s approval rating, now at 27 percent. Additionally, surveys suggest that his political party is currently leading in voter intentions ahead of the upcoming European Parliament elections.

However, sustaining this momentum is uncertain, especially since the yellow vest protests continue. Some demonstrators are considering transforming their movement into a political force capable of contesting the May elections, although internal divisions have become evident.

Macron, a former investment banker, has been advised to temper his rhetoric to avoid alienating voters and appearing arrogant, though he remains susceptible to making missteps. Furthermore, challenging reforms are on the horizon, including stricter unemployment benefits, a leaner public sector, and a unified pension system, which could reignite protests.

Polling suggests that Macron’s tough response to the violent demonstrations has reassured conservative voters who were disturbed by the unrest. "In my constituency, I’m told ‘we’re not always for your policies, but we want this whole saga to end,’" relayed Jean-Baptiste Djebbari, a member of Macron’s party. He added, "The French don’t like chaos. The grand debate is a smart way to navigate this situation."

Analysts caution, however, that Macron’s national debate could also result in heightened expectations. "Allowing people to voice their opinions is a significant commitment, and it’s essential that he demonstrates the purpose of this initiative," noted Frederic Dabi from Ifop.