Gérald Darmanin, after having occupied Place Beauvau for four years, believes that his cycle as Minister of the Interior is coming to an end. He expressed this feeling recently after the close of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a landmark event for which he oversaw security, thus concluding a period of intense legislative and budgetary preparations. This success allows him to draw an initial assessment of his action, where he highlights the evolution of the French security framework through various laws that he has introduced.
A political and personal turning point
Re-elected as a member of parliament in July 2024, Gérald Darmanin is now considering refocusing his political action. He has stated that he wants to take more time for reflection, although he has not completely ruled out remaining in government if conditions allow. “There is a time for action, and a time to reflect further,” he stated, leaving uncertainty surrounding his ministerial future. However, his loyalty to Emmanuel Macron remains intact, and he says he is ready to continue serving the state if the president requests it.
A recalibrated ambition
As the post-legislative political recomposition takes shape, Darmanin is striving to position his discourse around the pillars of social and sovereign issues. His rivalry with Gabriel Attal, another rising figure in the presidential majority, has crystallized, particularly in the National Assembly where the two men seem to be aiming for similar longer-term objectives, notably the 2027 presidential election.
The future of government: strategic uncertainty
While Darmanin once dreamed of Matignon, recent events have forced him to rethink his ambitions. Despite his taste for action, he is aware of the dangers that accompany the position of Minister of the Interior, described by him as the “ministry of sudden death”. Nevertheless, his future could take shape within the next government, where he could seek a strategic position allowing him to strengthen his political stature, such as at the Quai d'Orsay or at La Défense.
Conclusion
Gérald Darmanin, central figure of Macronism, is going through a pivotal period in his career. Between political reflection and loyalty to the president, his future remains uncertain. However, his ability to navigate between loyalty and ambition, while cultivating strategic alliances, suggests that he will play a key role in future political configurations, whether he remains in government or not.
