French Prime Minister Michel Barnier To Resign After No-Confidence Vote.
French Prime Minister Michel Barnier is expected to tender his resignation today after his government was ousted in a historic no-confidence vote, just three months into his tenure.
The motion, passed late last night with 331 votes in favour—well above the 288 needed—marks the first time in over 60 years that a French government has been voted down by parliament. The collapse of Barnier’s administration follows widespread backlash over his controversial use of special powers to push through the budget without parliamentary approval.
The no-confidence vote saw a rare alliance between Marine Le Pen’s far-right faction and the left-wing New Popular Front, both of which condemned Barnier’s handling of the budget process.
As required by French law, Barnier will now submit his government’s resignation to President Emmanuel Macron, while the disputed budget will be automatically withdrawn. Barnier is likely to remain in a caretaker capacity while Macron selects a successor—a process that could take weeks.
President Macron, who recently returned from a state visit to Saudi Arabia, is expected to address the nation in a televised speech on Thursday evening. While Barnier’s resignation has no direct constitutional impact on Macron’s presidency, the political crisis has emboldened opposition leaders. Many are openly calling for the president to step down and hold early elections—something Macron has categorically ruled out.
The collapse of Barnier’s government adds to the mounting challenges facing Macron, who is navigating a deeply divided parliament and increasing public discontent over economic reforms. The president’s next move will be critical in shaping the political landscape of France in the months to come.
