Laurent Wauquiez's recent meetings with prominent right-wing figures such as Éric Zemmour, Gérald Darmanin, and Édouard Philippe have caused significant tensions within the French Republicans (LR). During a heated group meeting on November 18, 2025, Michel Barnier expressed strong disapproval and asked Wauquiez for explanations regarding these meetings, which were not officially sanctioned by the party. Wauquiez defended his actions, stating that he was engaging with all political figures to explore the possibility of organizing a broad right-wing primary, including parties like Reconquête led by Zemmour and Sarah Knafo, and emphasizing that these meetings were part of an individual initiative, separate from the party's official stance. His entourage insists that Bruno Retailleau was aware of these contacts, although Retailleau denies this. The discussions have sparked internal disagreements, with some members criticizing Wauquiez for acting unilaterally and not with a collective mandate. Michel Barnier appeared notably angry, highlighting the lack of official authorization for Wauquiez's initiatives and criticizing the exclusion of the National Rally (RN) from the right-wing spectrum. The controversy underscores ongoing divisions within LR regarding the approach to the upcoming primary and the broader right-wing strategy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.