Could Christine Lagarde step into the French presidential race?

The Irish Times · Naomi O’Leary · 2026-11-06 12:07 UTC

Lagarde’s early resignation from the ECB has ignited speculation she may run to try to beat Marine Le Pen

An announcement by Christine Lagarde that she will step down as president of the European Central Bank nine months early, just in time for the French presidential election, has led to speculation that she is considering a run for the Élysée Palace herself.

Without giving specifics, Lagarde said she was stepping down because she could no longer “remain neutral”.

“I want to have the freedom of speech, the freedom of expression and the freedom to engage on matters that are not monetary policy matters,” Lagarde told reporters. “I think that my voice can help, my action can help in relation to principles that are dear to my heart.”

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