Macron Seeks New Prime Minister Amid Deadlock

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Michel Barnier as Prime Minister after nearly two months of political deadlock following July's legislative elections. Barnier, a former EU negotiator on Brexit and member of the center-right Les Republicains, faces the challenge of forming a government without a clear majority in parliament. His appointment has sparked mixed reactions, with Marine Le Pen of the National Rally expressing conditional support based on his policies, while Socialist leader Olivier Faure criticized the decision as undemocratic. Analysts warn that if Barnier cannot secure a working majority, France may face another snap election. The political landscape remains tense as opposition parties are poised to challenge the new government, potentially leading to a no-confidence motion. This appointment reflects ongoing struggles within Macron's administration to maintain stability amid a divided parliament.