France Faces Political Instability and Deepening Public-Political Divide as Macron Prepares Final Address

As 2025 draws to a close, France grapples with ongoing political instability and a widening rift between its political class and citizens. President Emmanuel Macron is set to deliver his New Year's address to the nation, marking one of his final speeches before his term ends. His presidency has been marked by unprecedented governmental turbulence, including a historic turnover of prime ministers — with one resigning after only 14 hours in office — and a failed parliamentary dissolution attempt in 2024. These upheavals have complicated the passage of the national budget, forcing Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to impose a special law to manage budgetary deadlock, resulting in tight fiscal controls until a satisfactory budget agreement is reached.

Amid this turmoil, the Rassemblement National, led by Jordan Bardella, has surged in popularity, particularly among voters concerned with purchasing power and inflation. This shift is also evident at the local level, where small-town mayors are actively implementing cost-saving measures to sustain their communities despite perceived inaction at the national level.

In parallel, political discussions within families and local communities have become increasingly fraught, often leading to tension and self-censorship. Research highlights psychological biases such as over-detection of hostility and rhetorical pitfalls like strawman arguments as key contributors to these conflicts. Experts suggest that recognizing extremism within one's own political side and adopting a learning posture can foster more respectful, empathetic dialogues.

These developments underscore a growing divide between the French public and political institutions, raising critical questions about the country’s political future and social cohesion as Macron’s presidency nears its end.