France Faces Budget Showdown: Government Weighs Options Amid Legislative Gridlock

France's government paused parliamentary discussions on the 2026 budget after failing to secure a compromise. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu considers options to pass the budget without a vote, which could lead to a no confidence motion. The stalemate involves opposition from leftist and far-right parties.

France's parliament discussions on the 2026 budget were suspended until Tuesday, following a breakdown in negotiations. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is considering options to circumvent the legislative process and pass the budget.

The impasse involves persistent opposition from both the far-left France Unbowed and the far-right National Rally. The government's bypass tactic could trigger a no confidence vote, risking potential governmental collapse unless Socialist concerns are addressed.

Budget Minister Amelie de Montchalin remarked on opposition efforts to render the budget unpassable. With high stakes, Lecornu will present a revised budget draft, contemplating invoking Articles 49.3 or 47 from the Constitution to pass the bill without parliamentary approval, with potential Socialist backlash looming.