Minister Sébastien Lecornu Breaks Promise, Invokes Article 49.3 to Pass 2026 Budget Amid Political Tensions

French Minister Sébastien Lecornu has controversially invoked Article 49.3 of the Constitution to pass the 2026 budget, breaking his earlier commitment not to use this constitutional procedure for budget texts. The decision, announced as the government sought to push through key fiscal measures, has sparked debate over political accountability and the method's democratic implications.

Lecornu expressed "regret and bitterness" about reconsidering his promise, acknowledging that his choice highlights a political failure and will likely be exploited by opponents. Since taking office, Lecornu emphasized holding political parties to account through public communication methods such as speeches, social media, and open letters, aiming to restore integrity and responsible governance. However, faced with opposition to the budget, he deemed the alternative constitutional route under Article 47 too risky, fearing it would provoke a parliamentary showdown.

Key to the budget's controversy is the increase in the "prime d'activité," a financial aid mechanism to boost purchasing power for low-income workers in France. Lecornu agreed to an annual two billion euro rise in this allowance in exchange for support from the Socialist Party, which helped the government avoid a censure motion.

Despite this compromise, critics remain concerned about the budget's financing methods, particularly the surtax on large companies. Political figures like Bruno Retailleau worry that higher corporate taxes may lead to economic relocation abroad, undermining France's business environment.

The use of Article 49.3 is remembered by many French citizens as a symbol of authoritarianism, especially after the contentious application during the 2023 pension reform. Lecornu's resort to this procedure, while intended to clarify responsibility between government and opposition, has reignited that sentiment and intensified political tensions.

As Lecornu navigates the fallout from suspending his initial promise, the political landscape remains fraught. Opposition parties are poised to capitalize on the perceived erosion of democratic norms, while the government prepares to implement the budget measures amid widespread scrutiny.