In a revelation of financial disclosures, former French Minister Bruno Le Maire has emerged as a notable author, earning significant royalties from his literary endeavors. The High Authority for Transparency in Public Life (HATVP) published the income declarations of former government members on February 25, providing a glimpse into Le Maire’s profitable side career as a writer.
Le Maire, who served as the Minister of Economy and Finance from 2017 to 2024, reported earning 55,323 euros in author royalties in 2024 alone. This figure was disclosed in his substantial interest modification declaration, highlighting revenues accrued between 2019 and 2024.
Despite his demanding ministerial duties, Le Maire has been prolific in his writing, with a bibliography that includes political essays and novels. His recent works have attracted particular attention, notably the 2023 novel “Fugue Américaine,” which stirred social media discussions due to its explicit content and writing style.
Critics have questioned the feasibility of maintaining such a productive literary output while holding a high-profile government position. Notably, in 2023, opposition politician Thomas Portes criticized Le Maire for focusing on writing during a period of economic hardship and social unrest in France. Le Maire responded by expressing his passion for both his ministerial duties and writing, emphasizing the importance of personal balance.
Throughout his tenure as a minister, Le Maire published six books, showcasing an impressive rate of production. Despite the controversies and critiques surrounding his literary work, his financial declarations indicate that his writing career has been financially rewarding.
Bruno Le Maire’s ability to balance his political responsibilities with his passion for writing continues to intrigue both supporters and critics, marking him as a unique figure in the intersection of politics and literature.
