Macron is playing Eric Zemmour’s tune

In a big speech yesterday, Macron presented himself in almost Nixonian terms as guardian of law and order. He said he would rewrite the penal code and double the number of police on the streets. But only if he’s re-elected. He further promised at least ten specific security measures and €500 million in additional spending. Ever the triangulator, he mixed hard with soft — promising also a parliamentary oversight body to clamp down on police brutality.

Nobody can accuse Macron of lacking policies, though they’re mostly more show than go. His attempt to co-opt the security agenda is thus far merely rhetorical. Body cameras for all police, a new national police academy or reporting crimes by email will not immediately make it safe for French women to ride the tube after dark. The beheading of a French school teacher for insulting the prophet isn’t forgotten. Nor has it escaped attention that on the day Macron announced himself as the premier cop of France, his former bodyguard, Alexandre Benalla, went on trial for a bouquet of crimes, including impersonating a police officer.