French President Emmanuel Macron has rejected calls to resign following the resignation of Prime Minister Michel Barnier after a historic no-confidence vote. Macron promised to name a new prime minister within days to stabilize the government and prevent further chaos in France’s political landscape.
The no-confidence vote, the first successful one since 1962, marked a turning point in Macron’s presidency. Blaming the crisis on both far-left and far-right factions, Macron accused Marine Le Pen’s National Rally and its opposition allies of creating “a sense of chaos” and prioritizing political games over governance.
“The extreme right and the extreme left united together in an anti-Republican front,” Macron said during a televised address. He criticized Le Pen’s party for fostering instability, stating, “They think about one thing: the presidential election.”
Barnier will remain as a caretaker until a new government is formed, but Macron faces a difficult path. The divided parliament must approve his next pick for prime minister, leaving Macron in a precarious position halfway through his final term.
Adding to the pressure is the looming deadline to pass a contentious budget by December 21. Failure to meet this deadline could result in a temporary fiscal continuity law that would cap government spending at 2024 levels.
Despite the challenges, Macron expressed optimism, calling this “a new era” and urging lawmakers to work “in the service of the French people.” However, Le Pen has vowed to resist any attempt to sideline her party’s influence, maintaining her opposition to a left-wing prime minister.
Macron’s leadership faces mounting criticism both at home and abroad as he works to regain authority. His next move will likely shape the remaining years of his presidency and determine whether he can navigate the fractured political environment.
