French Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government has been ousted in a no-confidence vote in parliament after less than four months in power due to a social security budget dispute. Barnier, 73, was set to resign and present his resignation to President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday morning. This marks the first time a prime minister has resigned following a no-confidence vote since 1962. The budget bill proposed by Barnier included tax hikes and spending cuts to address France’s deficit, which led to opposition from left-wing and right-wing parties in parliament. President Macron is expected to address the nation on Thursday evening about the next steps. The unity of left and right in France against Barnier’s budget highlights a deeper dissatisfaction with the current government. The political turmoil in France raises questions about Macron’s leadership and the formation of the next government. The nation awaits to see who Macron will appoint as the new prime minister and how they will navigate the country’s economic and political challenges. The vote against Barnier could also have implications for far-right leader Marine Le Pen’s presidential aspirations in 2027.
