French PM Lecornu Criticizes Political Deadlock as 2026 Budget Faces Unprecedented Rejection

On November 24, 2025, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu condemned the political blockages that led to the unprecedented rejection of the 2026 state budget, urging political parties to move beyond ideological divides to adopt a responsible financial framework. After the National Assembly overwhelmingly rejected the budget's revenue section, with only Deputy Harold Huwart voting in favor, Lecornu criticized what he described as "a form of cynicism" from parties like La France insoumise and the Rassemblement national, which he believes jeopardizes France’s economic stability and security.

Lecornu pointed out that despite the failure to pass the full budget, a parliamentary majority still exists to approve key elements. He outlined plans to meet with all political factions and social partners to focus discussions on five absolute priorities: reducing the deficit, implementing state reforms, addressing energy challenges, supporting agriculture, and enhancing national security. The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of maintaining the deficit target below 5% of GDP for 2026 and announced that thematic votes on these priorities could occur before budget discussions resume in mid-December, including an upcoming vote on defense spending expected next week.

The political stalemate has drawn contrasting reactions. Fabien Roussel of the French Communist Party criticized the government's proposed military budget increase, advocating for urgent negotiations concerning the Ukraine conflict and warning of a looming global crisis. Conversely, Jean-Philippe Tanguy from the Rassemblement national accused the parliamentary majority of sabotaging the budget process from the outset and stressed that peace terms should be decided by Ukrainians themselves.

Despite these challenges, Lecornu remains optimistic. He called on Parliament to assume a "historic responsibility" to pass a budget that balances fiscal discipline with national priorities, stressing the importance of unity amid political tensions. This budget impasse marks a rare and significant event in the Fifth Republic's history, highlighting the complexities in France’s current political landscape.