French National Assembly Rejects Two Motions of Censure on 2026 Budget as Finance Bill Moves to Senate

On January 27, 2026, the French National Assembly dismissed two motions of censure aimed at toppling Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s government following its controversial use of Article 49.3 to advance the 2026 finance bill. The first motion, led by the left coalition including La France Insoumise (LFI), ecologists, and communists, garnered 267 votes—short of the 289 needed to unseat the government. The second, backed by Marine Le Pen and Eric Ciotti from the opposition right, received only 140 votes.

These votes mark the latest parliamentary clashes over Lecornu’s decision to invoke his government’s responsibility to pass the budget’s expenditure section without a full vote, sparking criticism from various political factions. Despite the left coalition’s unified stand, the Socialist Party chose not to support the left-wing motion, citing gains secured in negotiations that include an additional 8 billion euros in fiscal justice revenue and 12 billion euros in increased purchasing power over the original bill.

The rejection of the censure motions allows the 2026 finance bill to be transmitted to the Senate for further review, with expected consideration scheduled for Thursday and a possible expedited return to the Assembly for final adoption. The political tensions remain high as Lecornu may once again invoke Article 49.3 by Friday, prompting the possibility of further censure attempts.

During the previous week, the Assembly had also rejected two other motions of censure related to the budget’s revenue section, allowing that part to advance. Critics from leftist groups and the National Rally continue to denounce the budget for neglecting ecological issues and failing to adequately address the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

This parliamentary episode highlights the significant struggle facing Lecornu’s government as it pushes forward its legislative agenda amid divided opposition, showcasing a fractured left and persistent resistance within France’s political landscape.