French PM Michel Barnier Faces No-Confidence Vote After Using Special Powers on Budget Bill

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has invoked special powers to pass the 2025 social security budget without a parliamentary vote, a controversial move that has set the stage for a no-confidence vote against his government.

The radical left France Unbowed (LFI) party announced plans to formally trigger the vote on Tuesday afternoon, with the far-right National Rally (RN), led by Marine Le Pen, pledging its support.

The vote could happen as soon as Wednesday, and Barnier’s minority government is not expected to survive.

Barnier’s use of Article 49.3 of the French Constitution allows him to push legislation through without parliamentary approval.

The decision came after last-minute concessions failed to secure enough support for the budget bill. The RN joined forces with the left-wing opposition to block the bill, leaving Barnier with no other option.

Explaining his decision, Barnier told MPs, “I don’t think French people will forgive us for choosing party interests over the future of the country. Now, everybody will need to assume their own responsibility as I have assumed mine.”

Marine Le Pen criticized Barnier’s approach, stating, “Barnier didn’t listen to the 11 million voters of the RN… He said everyone should assume their own responsibility, and that’s what we will do.”

However, President Emmanuel Macron appointed Barnier, a center-right politician, as prime minister in September, a move that angered the left-wing alliance.

If Barnier loses the no-confidence vote, he will remain as a caretaker prime minister until Macron appoints a new government.

Some parties are also pushing for a snap presidential election. For now, Macron’s term runs until 2027, but the ongoing political turmoil could put additional pressure on his administration.

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