Opposition Prepares Motion of Censure Over Social Security Budget and Pension Reform

On November 8, 2025, the National Assembly adopted the revised 'revenue' section of the Social Security budget, allowing further debate on the controversial article that delays pension reform. The adoption, however, exposed deep divisions among political groups. While deputies from Renaissance and MoDem supported the vote, members of Horizons were split, and Les Républicains (LR) abstained. Left-wing parties also showed discord: the Socialist Party (PS) backed the budget to defend citizens' purchasing power, but La France Insoumise (LFI) and the National Rally (RN) vehemently opposed it, citing concerns about financing and fiscal impacts.

Manuel Bompard, an LFI deputy, confirmed a firm intention to reject the Social Security budget, labeling the government's delay of pension reform as a "shift" rather than a suspension. He criticized the reform's financing, particularly the planned freeze on pensions next year and the under-indexation over the following four years. Bompard expressed determination to bring down the government by filing a motion of censure before Christmas, contingent on securing sufficient votes. Additionally, he accused President Emmanuel Macron of misleading the public regarding the Mercosur trade agreement, suggesting Macron's opposition was disingenuous.

The RN opposed the reinstatement of a production tax within the budget, contending it was essential to avoid a projected five billion euro deficit but still voted against the revenue section. PS leader Olivier Faure criticized LFI and RN for undermining the social debate, while Jean-Luc Mélenchon of LFI accused the PS of reneging on electoral promises.

This growing political strife following the Social Security budget adoption highlights fractured alliances and intensifying opposition strategies, with the looming motion of censure poised as a critical test for the government’s stability heading into the holiday season.