A recent social media poll claims that only 7% of French citizens trust President Emmanuel Macron, a statistic highlighted by politicians from the far-right National Rally (RN) party. Prominent RN members like Bruno Bilde and Julien Odoul have seized on this number to question Macron’s support among the populace, with Odoul amusingly asking who comprises this alleged “fanatic Macronistes.” However, the validity of this claim is under scrutiny, as more reputable polls indicate a higher approval rating for the president, suggesting that the 7% figure may be misleading.
Polling data from late July paints a different picture regarding Macron’s approval, showing figures of 28% according to a survey by LCI and 21% per a poll from Les Echos. While polling methods can differ significantly, leading to variances in results, these figures from established sources show that a 7% trust rate is highly unlikely. This discrepancy calls into question the credibility of the image being disseminated online, which presents the lower figure without context or substantiation from credible news outlets.
Upon reviewing the source of the viral 7% statistic, it becomes apparent that the image has been artificially altered. The top-right corner can be linked to Le Figaro, a well-known conservative newspaper, but there is no record of such a low approval rating originating from them. A similar post from Le Figaro, dated October 2024, indicated that Macron’s trust rating was actually 17%—still low, but far more plausible than the viral 7%. It appears that an intentional manipulation of the original image was made, removing the leading “1” to further mislead viewers.
Despite these manipulations, it is clear that trust in Macron has indeed decreased over time, particularly during his second term. Factors contributing to this decline include his controversial decision to dissolve the National Assembly in June 2024 in response to a far-right surge during European elections and the government’s announcement of budgetary cuts planned for 2026. These actions have likely played a significant role in shaping public sentiment against him, illustrating how political decisions can deeply influence a leader’s support among the electorate.
Looking ahead, the next presidential elections in France are scheduled for 2027. Under the current constitutional framework, Macron is barred from seeking a third term, thus leaving his political future ambiguous. This uncertainty, compounded by the reduction in trust and satisfaction among citizens, raises important questions about the trajectory of French politics post-Macron. As frustrations mount, the political landscape may shift further toward the right, given the rising popularity of parties like the National Rally.
In conclusion, while manipulative surveys like the one circulating on social media may suggest a dire distrust in Macron, credible polls indicate a more complex reality. A nuanced understanding of public sentiment reveals that although trust in the president is waning, it is not as alarmingly low as portrayed. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information, especially in an age dominated by social media and political posturing. As France approaches its next electoral cycle, the implications of these attitudes will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future leadership and governance.
