Élisabeth Borne, the former Prime Minister of France, addressed persistent rumors regarding her alleged homosexuality in a recent interview on France Inter. She expressed her disbelief that such speculation continues, stating, "I really didn't understand" the implications of these rumors during her time in office. Borne emphasized that if she were homosexual, she would not have hesitated to disclose it, citing many politicians who openly embrace their sexual orientation, including her successor, Gabriel Attal, who has publicly acknowledged his homosexuality.
In her new book, "Twenty Months at Matignon," published on October 23, Borne reflects on her political career, which she describes as fraught with sexism and personal attacks. She pointed out the double standards faced by female politicians, stating, "We have the impression that there are two categories of Prime Ministers, men and women." She criticized the media's scrutiny of her personal life and the unfair comparisons to her predecessor, Édith Cresson, highlighting the ongoing challenges women face in politics.
Borne's remarks shed light on the broader issue of sexism in political life, where women are often judged more harshly on their appearance and behavior. She recounted instances where her decisions were scrutinized through a gendered lens, contrasting her experiences with those of her male counterparts. This commentary serves as a reminder of the persistent gender biases that continue to affect women in leadership roles.
