François Bayrou Warns of France's Growing National Debt and Reflects on Political Challenges

François Bayrou, former Prime Minister and mayor of Pau, has issued a stark warning about the critical state of France's national debt, which has soared to an unprecedented €3,500 billion. In an exclusive interview and public appearances in June 2026, Bayrou emphasized the severe consequences of this debt burden, highlighting the risk of "dévitalisation" as resources are increasingly diverted to service interest payments, leaving fewer means to invest in the country's future.

Bayrou attributes the debt crisis to decades of unbalanced budgets, noting that for the last fifty years, France has consistently spent beyond its means. This trend intensified under President Emmanuel Macron's administration due to crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Despite this, Bayrou expressed support for Macron, pointing out that the fiscal challenges predated and extended beyond his presidency. He underscored the pivotal role of public opinion in shaping political decisions, remarking, "L’opinion publique commande, les politiques suivent" (Public opinion commands, politicians follow).

Addressing broader political themes, Bayrou warned against alliances with extreme political factions, stressing the importance of national identity and the integration of immigrants through employment and language acquisition as crucial steps for societal cohesion. These perspectives are detailed in his upcoming book, "Alerte sur la France qui vient," in which he calls for honest political dialogue to confront France’s looming challenges.

Bayrou also reflected candidly on his own political journey, particularly the significant setbacks he experienced due to the Bétharram scandal related to abuse cases in a Catholic institution connected to his family’s congregation. Though the accusations against him were proven false, the scandal precipitated his resignation from the Prime Minister post and contributed to his defeat in the recent municipal elections after 12 years as mayor of Pau. He voiced the profound sense of injustice he felt during the investigation: "You feel this as such an injustice without having the means to defend yourself."

While Bayrou remains engaged with the political landscape and the upcoming 2027 presidential elections, he has firmly stated he will not run again. He commented on the complexity of current political currents, noting instances where right-wing votes inadvertently bolstered left-wing candidates, indicating a fragmented political scene ahead.

Bayrou’s analysis offers a comprehensive view of France’s intertwined fiscal and political crises, urging practical solutions and transparent leadership as essential to the country’s future stability and prosperity.