Macron's Government Faces Intense Political Turmoil Amid Widespread Public Discontent

The French government under President Emmanuel Macron is grappling with severe political instability as public dissatisfaction peaks and Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu confronts two motions of censure in the National Assembly. Current polling reveals a deep fatigue with the political situation: 51% of the French express disgust, 46% anger, and 43% worry, according to an Ipsos survey published October 16, 2025. Macron's popularity has dropped to a record low, with only 20% viewing him positively and 60% wanting his resignation. Despite this, nearly half of the population prefers political stability, opposing both new motions of censure and calls for government dissolution.

Prime Minister Lecornu, who enjoys somewhat better approval at 42%, faces votes from the far-right National Rally and leftist La France insoumise. In parliamentary debates, Lecornu defended his government's fiscal policy and governance approach, stressing the importance of "order" over "disorder". Marine Le Pen, RN leader, condemned the 2026 budget as a "museum of all horrors" and called for a government dissolution, signaling deep opposition. Aurélie Trouvé from LFI criticized Macron's failure to address public anger and described the pension reform suspension as deceptive. Several Socialist deputies, despite party leadership's neutral stance, appear ready to support the censure, reflecting fractured political loyalties.

Public sentiment, however, appears conflicted. While Macron is widely blamed (37%) for the crisis, 47% of the public oppose motions of censure, indicating exhaustion with ongoing political upheaval. Furthermore, 48% reject another parliamentary dissolution, suggesting a desire to avoid further instability despite dissatisfaction. If elections occur, 67% say they would still participate, underscoring a continued commitment to democratic processes despite widespread frustration.

This complex mix of public discontent and parliamentary challenges places Macron's government at a critical juncture. The outcome of the censure votes will be a pivotal moment for Lecornu's administration—either reinforcing its mandate or precipitating a political crisis. Against the backdrop of France’s fraught political landscape in October 2025, stability and governance remain fiercely contested issues among citizens and lawmakers alike.