Europa Posted on 2026-07-04 11:12:00

Lagarde does not rule out early departure ECB President may run for French presidency

From Scan TV

Lagarde does not rule out early departure ECB President may run for French

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde said there was a possibility she could step down before her term ends in 2027, in order to remain present in French politics. However, she said a run in next spring's French presidential election was "not currently" on the agenda.

Responding to a question from the French newspaper Les Échos whether she would rule out leaving early, perhaps to participate in French politics, she said: "It is possible. I believe that a European voice should be heard in the French presidential debate."

Lagarde has previously played down rumors of a resignation, saying a ship captain would not leave during turbulent times, as inflation soared due to rising oil prices caused by the Iran war. She said at the time that her goal was to stay in the job until her term expires at the end of October 2027.

Although she did not repeat the phrase, she seemed to rule out running in the French elections next spring.

When asked whether she would support a candidate or run as one, she first said "I'll reflect on that," then added: "I'm kidding. I don't think that's currently on the agenda." She said her main job would be to bring a European argument to national politics.

"I would speak with a French and European voice, because I am deeply of both," Lagarde said of her potential role in the election.

"I would tell them that France must play a decisive role in the economic future of our continent. And that without this European environment and anchorage, our economic prospects would, at the very least, be unclear," she said.

 

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