Paris: French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is set to deliver a decisive address to the National Assembly today, placing his political future squarely in the hands of parliamentarians. The speech, centered on the government’s upcoming budget plan, comes at a moment of intense political turbulence, with Lecornu confronting the looming threat of a no-confidence vote that could topple his administration.
The political environment in France remains deeply fragmented. Both far-left and far-right factions have tabled motions of no confidence against the government, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with Lecornu’s leadership. Central to the Prime Minister’s survival is the stance of the Socialist Party, whose support or at least strategic abstention may determine the outcome of the vote. Around 25 Socialist MPs hold the balance, and their decision is expected to hinge on the specifics of Lecornu’s proposed fiscal measures.
Lecornu’s forthcoming budget aims to reduce France’s fiscal deficit to 4.7% of GDP by the end of 2026. This plan includes more than €30 billion in spending cuts, targeting public services and social programs. While the government frames these measures as essential for economic stability, opposition voices have criticized the budget for disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. The Socialist Party, in particular, has signaled that it may pursue its own motion of no confidence if the budget fails to address their key demands, such as revising pension reforms and introducing wealth taxes.
President Emmanuel Macron, who has already overseen five prime ministers in less than two years, faces mounting pressure to stabilize the political situation. A collapse of Lecornu’s government could force Macron to call fresh legislative elections, further intensifying political uncertainty. Analysts warn that a failure to secure parliamentary support could trigger a broader crisis, affecting both domestic governance and France’s standing in the European Union.
As the National Assembly prepares to convene, all eyes are on Lecornu’s address. The Prime Minister’s ability to negotiate and appeal to parliamentarians will be crucial in determining not only the fate of his government but also the trajectory of France’s political landscape in the weeks ahead.