French government falls after no-confidence vote passed in the national assembly

The French National Assembly voted in favor of a no-confidence motion on Wednesday, effectively bringing down Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government just three months after his appointment. The motion, which passed with 331 votes in favor—well above the 288 required—marks a dramatic turn in the country’s political landscape.

Barnier, a prominent conservative figure who was appointed by President Emmanuel Macron in September, will go down in history as the shortest-serving prime minister of France. In his final remarks before the vote, Barnier expressed his pride in serving the country. “As this mission may soon come to an end, I can tell you that it will remain an honor for me to have served France and the French with dignity,” he said.

The no-confidence vote came on the heels of escalating disputes over the national budget, a contentious issue that has divided lawmakers. It also reflects the broader political shifts following the legislative elections held earlier this year, which dramatically altered the balance of power in the National Assembly. In those elections, Macron’s centrist Ensemble coalition suffered significant losses, while the far-left New Popular Front coalition gained considerable ground. The resulting political gridlock has made it increasingly difficult for the government to secure support on key issues, including the budget.

The motion was largely driven by an unlikely alliance of far-right and far-left lawmakers, united in opposition to the current government’s handling of fiscal matters. This cross-party coalition further highlights the challenges faced by Macron’s administration as it grapples with a fragmented and polarized parliament.

As a result of the vote, Barnier is expected to resign in the coming days, leaving Macron with the task of appointing a new prime minister for the second time in a year. While Macron has faced growing pressure from both sides of the political spectrum to step down, the president has signaled his intention to remain in office until the end of his term in 2027. If Macron chooses to stay, he will need to navigate the tricky waters of appointing a new prime minister capable of securing political stability.

Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally, voiced her party’s willingness to cooperate with the incoming prime minister. In a post on social media, Le Pen stressed that her party would be “constructive” in working with the next government, particularly on matters such as the national budget. However, she denied making any explicit call for Macron’s resignation.

With the political future of the French government now uncertain, all eyes are on the next steps Macron will take to restore order and address the deepening divides within the National Assembly.