Marine Le Pen Pushes No-Confidence Vote Over French Budget

Far-Right Leader Joins Left-Wing Coalition to Oppose “Punitive” Budget

Marine Le Pen, leader of France’s far-right National Rally (RN), has called for a no-confidence vote to remove Prime Minister Michel Barnier, citing opposition to what she describes as a “dangerous, unjust, and punitive budget.”

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Le Pen defended her stance, stating:

“Censoring this budget is, unfortunately, the only way the constitution gives us to protect the French from a dangerous, unjust, and punitive budget which, moreover, worsens the already monstrous deficits of seven years of Macronism.”

Coalition Against Barnier

Le Pen’s RN has joined forces with the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) coalition—comprising the Socialists, Greens, and other progressive parties—in a rare alliance aimed at blocking the government’s fiscal policies.

Two no-confidence motions are on the table: one by the RN and another by the hard-left NFP. While Le Pen’s motion is unlikely to pass, she has pledged her party’s support for the NFP’s proposal, increasing its chances of success.

Budget Concessions Fall Short

The standoff follows weeks of budget negotiations between Barnier’s government and opposition parties. Over the weekend, Le Pen demanded additional concessions, including a commitment to raise pensions in line with inflation. Though Barnier had already withdrawn a proposed electricity tax hike, Le Pen criticized him for failing to adequately address RN’s demands and accused him of ignoring opposition voices.

Barnier, known for his role as the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, faces mounting pressure as lawmakers prepare to vote on the motions. Should the no-confidence vote succeed, it would topple his government, marking a significant political shift for President Emmanuel Macron’s administration.

Broader Implications

The budget dispute highlights deep divisions within the French political landscape, with Le Pen positioning herself as a champion of fiscal justice for the public. If the no-confidence motion passes, it could set the stage for further political instability and potential elections, reshaping the country’s governance amid ongoing economic challenges.