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Ernotte Defends France Télévisions, Calls CNews an Opinion Channel After Audit Flags Cash Crunch

A scathing audit flagged deepening deficits, costly practices, a looming cash shortfall, sharpening pressure for rapid savings.

Overview

  • On RTL, Delphine Ernotte reiterated that she “assumes” her view of CNews as an opinion outlet and said the channel has targeted the public broadcaster for years.
  • The Cour des comptes reported a cumulative €81 million deficit since 2017 and a 2025 budget shortfall, with forecasts pointing to a possible treasury balance of about minus €27 million this year.
  • Ernotte said France Télévisions has already reduced employees’ “train de vie” and will keep cutting costs, proposing a renegotiation of the 2013 company agreement to boost productivity and asking for predictable state support.
  • The audit highlighted nearly €4 million spent on taxis in 2024, which Ernotte defended as necessary for a nationwide and international operation with many staff outside Paris under controlled rules.
  • Political pressure intensified as RN leader Marine Le Pen called for Ernotte’s departure and pushed privatization, while Bolloré‑owned media amplified attacks following her comments on CNews.