French President Emmanuel Macron “deserves respect” and is “sometimes” hurt by criticism, First Lady Brigitte Macron said in a rare interview broadcast on Wednesday, firmly dismissing speculation that the embattled leader might resign before completing his term.
Speaking to TF1 television, Brigitte Macron acknowledged the challenges her husband faces after months of political deadlock and waning public support. “Sometimes what he hears hurts him. It’s very difficult. But he doesn’t say it. He keeps it to himself,” she revealed, adding, “If there’s one thing Emmanuel deserves, it’s respect.”
France has been in a state of political paralysis since Macron’s gamble on snap elections last summer failed to strengthen his position. The vote resulted in a deeply fragmented parliament split between three rival blocs, leaving the president with limited power to push through reforms.
With his approval ratings at record lows, some opposition politicians have called for Macron to step down. However, the First Lady firmly dismissed such notions, stating, “He said he would go all the way because that was the mission given to him by the French people.”
Addressing public concerns, Brigitte Macron admitted that the dissolution of parliament had unsettled citizens. “The French are anxious and a little lost,” she said. “Everyday life is very difficult.”
Despite the domestic challenges, she highlighted that from abroad, France is seen as “a land of plenty,” with robust healthcare, education, and social support systems.
Macron, 47, has acknowledged the difficulties himself, conceding in his New Year’s Eve address that the dissolution of parliament had “brought more divisions to the National Assembly than solutions.”
Brigitte Macron, 71, refrained from directly evaluating his decisions but noted that “history will judge” his tenure. She added, “It’s not for me to say what I think. I’ve never said it, and I never will.”
Defending her husband’s dedication, she emphasized his unwavering commitment to his role. “He cares about everything and puts all his intelligence, all his heart at the service of the French people,” she said, signaling Macron’s determination to remain in office until the end of his second term in 2027.
