Thierry Breton, the outgoing European Commissioner for the Internal Market and Services, has resigned. In the resignation letter he shared on X, Breton claimed that von der Leyen had recently pressured France to withdraw his candidacy as the country’s nominee for the European Commission, in exchange for a more influential role. Breton accused von der Leyen of acting “for personal reasons that you never directly discussed with me.” So far, neither the French government nor von der Leyen have commented

French Commissioner and nominee for reappointment Thierry Breton announced his resignation this morning, Monday, September 16, by posting a letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on X (formerly Twitter). In his letter, the liberal politician cited vague "recent developments" and "questionable governance" as reasons for his decision. This move comes as von der Leyen faces challenges in assembling her new team.

The two political figures have had increasingly strained relations over the past five years. In the spring, Breton publicly highlighted von der Leyen’s difficulties in securing the support of her own political group, the European People’s Party, in her bid for re-election as Commission President. Beyond their personal incompatibility, their clash has also revolved around political strategy.

Breton’s letter suggests that von der Leyen requested that France withdraw his nomination. The reason? Breton refers to "personal motives." This could hint at their past tensions or even gender dynamics, as von der Leyen had asked member states to provide both male and female candidates for her consideration. However, Breton explained that von der Leyen allowed countries to keep their nominees without complying with this two-name request.

Breton's sudden and unexpected resignation highlights the broader difficulties von der Leyen faces in forming her new Commission, especially as she aims for gender parity. She is scheduled to present her team to parliamentary leaders in Strasbourg on Tuesday, September 17, though it’s uncertain if this meeting will proceed as planned.

This situation may also spark tensions in Paris. While the nomination of the EU commissioner is usually the prerogative of the French President, following recent legislative elections and the defeat of Macron’s Renaissance party, Prime Minister Barnier’s government might try to influence the decision. During his 2019-2024 term, Breton, 69, oversaw a significant portfolio, including the internal market and industry.

In his resignation letter, Breton stated that von der Leyen had promised France a "more influential portfolio" if he withdrew. So far, neither the Élysée Palace nor the European Commission have commented on the situation. Von der Leyen’s goal is to have the new Commission in place by November 1st, though this deadline now appears challenging due to ongoing uncertainties.