French Political Crisis Deepens: Government Collapse Leaves Macron Searching for Fourth PM in a Year

Political Upheaval in France

French lawmakers have voted to oust Prime Minister François Bayrou, plunging the country into a new political crisis and leaving it without a government at a time of increasing economic strain and geopolitical tensions.

The Immediate Trigger

The parliamentary vote was decisive, with lawmakers rejecting Bayrou by an overwhelming margin of 364-194. The immediate cause was his controversial proposal to implement drastic cuts of around 44 billion euros ($51 billion) to next year’s budget, an unpopular attempt to resolve France’s economic woes.

Economic Context

France’s economic situation remains precarious, with public debt reaching 3.346 trillion euros, equivalent to 114% of gross domestic product at the end of the first quarter of 2025. Debt servicing has become a major burden, consuming approximately 7% of state spending.

Political Implications

This marks the third prime ministerial departure in rapid succession, following Gabriel Attal’s exit in September 2024 and Michel Barnier’s ouster in December. Macron’s office has announced that he will name a new prime minister ‘in the coming days.’

Future Challenges

The political crisis comes amid broader challenges, including a cost-of-living crisis that has fueled a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment and strengthened far-right support. Large anti-government protests are expected throughout France in the coming days. Many French political experts predict this crisis will continue until 2027 when the country elects a new leader. This prolonged instability poses significant challenges for addressing France’s immediate economic concerns, as evidenced by the fate of both Bayrou and Barnier, who were ousted while attempting to resolve the national debt crisis.

Macron’s Position

While President Macron retains substantial powers over foreign policy, European affairs, and military command, his domestic agenda faces increasing obstacles. At 47 years old, the president has vowed to complete his term until 2027, but risks becoming a lame duck if the political paralysis persists.