“And I’m not saying it to brag, it’s my mindset, and it’s the kind of mindset you need for this country” (Donald Trump)
“The Gaullist that I am will not abandon the working classes to the extreme left and extreme right” (Christian Estrosi)
Putting aside a small festival of narcissism (film, speech), Christian Estrosi undeniably demonstrated mastery in communication by turning a simple New Year’s greeting event into a “pro-domo sua” propaganda meeting.
Indeed, the “factory-like” atmosphere was fitting, and the applause and “viva” gave the impression of acclamation directed more towards a lord of the manor than an elected public official.
It’s true that, given his more than remarkable career and the numerous titles he can claim, it’s always a question mark what role Christian Estrosi is expressing himself in.
On this occasion, it was “Christian” who denounced a “catastrophic” situation in France (as we count the days until the presidential election to see if François Hollande’s successor will manage to escape the bombardment).
And who criticized the stifling technocracy that, according to him, is choking the country (his main target at the moment is SNCF President Guillaume Papy, who succeeded Prefect Adolphe Colrat as the top “persona non grata”).
The verdict is unequivocal: “Everything must be changed to end the stifling of talents. Our country abounds with talent, and we must pave the way for them.”
This ethical and moral revolt reminds us of Figaro, made subversive by the inequity of his master, Count Almaviva, who wants to prevent him from marrying his beloved Suzanne and to whom he addresses words that weigh like lead: “What good have you done? You took the trouble to be born, nothing more.”
However, it is surprising in the words of someone who is the contrary example, given the extraordinary career he has built, to which nothing predestined him except a will of iron, a remarkable capacity for assimilation, and an exceptional work ethic.
There is nonetheless a contradiction in terms when he appeals to common sense and then slips into easy populism.
That did not prevent the large audience, caught in a peaceful enchantment, from applauding “Christian.”
After all, there are enthusiasms that feed on themselves, consensual unanimities.
Therefore, it is out of the question to grimace at the general cheerfulness.
