French 2026 Budget Faces Rejection and Political Uncertainty Amidst Unprecedented Parliamentary Debate

The 2026 French budget has encountered significant obstacles as the Finance Committee of the National Assembly rejected the first part of the budget following three days of intense discussions and amendments. This setback sets a challenging stage for the upcoming debates in the National Assembly, which began on Friday under conditions described as "completely unprecedented." Notably, the government, led by Sébastien Lecornu, has chosen not to invoke article 49.3 of the constitution, a measure that would have allowed passage of the budget without a parliamentary vote, revealing the high-stakes nature of this political moment.

According to a study by Odoxa-Backbone Consulting for Le Figaro, 52% of French citizens anticipate that the finance bill will ultimately not be approved by deputies. This public skepticism reflects the broader uncertainty gripping the political environment as parliamentarians return to the center of the spectrum to navigate the contentious budget discussions.

Should the budget fail to pass, there is considerable support among the populace for a subsequent motion of censure, with 52% of respondents backing such an action, signaling potential governmental instability ahead.

The debate's unprecedented context and the absence of 49.3 usage underscore the complexity and volatility of this parliamentary session, emphasizing the crucial balance of legislative negotiation without executive shortcuts. These developments highlight the profound political tension and public anticipation as France grapples with its fiscal planning and the possible consequences for the current government's stability.