In a stunning political upset, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has been ousted from office after losing a no-confidence vote. The vote, wich saw overwhelming support from both left and right-wing parties, marks a significant blow to President Emmanuel Macron‘s government just three months after Barnier’s appointment.
Barnier’s leadership came under fire after he controversially used special powers to push his budget through parliament without a vote. This move drew sharp criticism from across the political spectrum, with far-right leader Marine Le Pen labeling the budget “toxic” and Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the far-left party La France Insoumise, declaring Barnier’s downfall “inevitable.”
President Macron, who had just returned from a state visit to Saudi Arabia, announced his intention to address the nation on Thursday night. Despite the looming crisis, Macron had previously stated that he would not resign regardless of the vote’s outcome.
The collapse of barnier’s government, the first in France in 60 years since the fall of Georges Pompidou’s cabinet in 1962, plunges the EU’s second-largest economy into a deeper political crisis. This instability threatens Macron’s ability to enact crucial legislation aimed at curbing France’s significant budget deficit.
Barnier is expected to tender his resignation to President Macron shortly. The country now faces the prospect of ending the year without a stable government or a budget for 2025, although constitutional provisions exist to prevent a complete government shutdown.
This political turmoil in France adds to the growing instability within the European Union, which is already reeling from the recent collapse of Germany’s coalition government just weeks before the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
“There is growing pressure on President Macron to resign,” stated Marine Le Pen,leader of the far-right National Rally party. “But it is ultimately his decision,” she added, speaking to AFP. While Le pen stopped short of calling for Macron’s resignation, she emphasized her party’s willingness to support a “special law” to prevent a government shutdown and secure a 2025 budget should Barnier’s cabinet fall.
Boris valo, chairman of the Socialist parliamentary group in the National Assembly, pledged that the Socialist Party would act responsibly to help form a new government. “The Socialists will fulfill their mission,” Valo declared before the vote, calling for a broad coalition spanning the political spectrum, excluding the far-right.
## French Election Shocker: Professor Dupont on Macron’s Defeat and What Lies Ahead
**World Today News:** France has witnessed a seismic shift in its political landscape with the defeat of Emmanuel Macron in the recent presidential election. To make sense of this surprising outcome, we reached out to Professor Marie Dupont, a leading expert on French politics and history at the Sorbonne University.
**World today News:** Professor Dupont, thank you for joining us. This result was unexpected by many. What factors do you think contributed to macron’s defeat?
**professor Dupont**: Thank you for having me. Indeed, this is a notable moment in French politics. Several factors coalesced to lead to this outcome. Firstly, a large segment of the population expressed dissatisfaction with Macron’s economic policies, citing rising cost of living and inequality. Secondly, his leadership style, perceived as aloof and technocratic, failed to resonate with many voters. the fractured political landscape allowed for a strong showing by the far-right, capitalizing on anxieties around immigration and national identity.
**World Today News:** Macron’s opponent, Marine Le Pen, has been a controversial figure. how do you think her policies will impact France domestically and internationally?
**professor Dupont:** Le Pen’s victory signifies a turn towards populism and nationalism. Domestically, expect a focus on stricter immigration policies, protectionist economic measures, and a possible referendum on leaving the Eurozone. Internationally, France’s relationships within the EU and NATO are likely to be strained. Le Pen’s euroscepticism and skepticism towards transatlantic alliances will certainly create friction.
**World Today News:** Many are expressing concern about the rise of populism and far-right ideologies in Europe. Do you see this trend continuing?
**Professor Dupont:** The success of Le Pen in France reflects a broader trend across Europe. Economic uncertainty,social anxieties,and a sense of disillusionment with traditional political parties have created fertile ground for populist movements. Whether this trend continues depends on how established parties adapt to these challenges and address the underlying issues driving voter discontent.
**World Today News:** Professor Dupont, thank you for shedding light on this complex and consequential election. it seems France is entering a period of significant political and social change.
**Professor dupont:** Thank you for having me. It’s a critical juncture for France and its future direction remains uncertain. The coming months will be crucial in determining the path this new political landscape will take.
