PARIS (AP) — French President Macron late Tuesday appointed Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu as France’s new prime minister and tasked him with immediately trying to get the country’s fractious political parties to agree on a budget for one of the world’s biggest economies. Lecornu, 39, was the youngest defense minister in French history and architect of a major military buildup through 2030, spurred by Russia’s war in Ukraine. A longtime Macron loyalist, Lecornu is now France’s fourth prime minister in barely a year. A former conservative who joined Macron’s centrist movement in 2017, Lecornu has held posts in local governments, overseas territories and during Macron’s yellow vest 'great debate,' when he helped manage mass anger with dialogue. His rise reflects Macron’s instinct to reward loyalty but also the need for continuity as repeated budget showdowns have toppled his predecessors and left France in drift. Macron’s quick decision to name Lecornu comes ahead of a day of mass disruption planned Wednesday by a protest movement called 'Block Everything,' prompting the government to deploy an exceptional 80,000 police to maintain order. Legislators toppled Lecornu’s predecessor, Francois Bayrou, in a confidence vote on Monday, leading to a new crisis for Europe’s second-largest economy. Bayrou’s attempt at slashing public spending was met with resistance, leaving France at risk of prolonged legislative deadlock as it faces significant economic challenges and international tensions. Drafting a budget will be a top priority for Lecornu, with Macron urging him to consult all political parties before assembling a new team. Lecornu's historical role in leading dialogues during social unrest highlights his capabilities in governance during turbulent times.