Overview

• Bayrou’s minority cabinet lost the confidence vote 194–364, forcing him to tender the government’s resignation and shifting the cabinet into a caretaker role.
• The defeat follows a proposed austerity plan to save roughly €43.8–44 billion that included abolishing two public holidays, a centerpiece that fueled public anger.
• Left, green, and far-right blocs aligned to oppose the government, reflecting a fragmented Assembly where no camp holds a majority since the 2024 snap elections.
• Protest actions are set to escalate, with a “Bloquons tout” blockade call on September 10 and nationwide union strikes planned for September 18.
• Fiscal strains persist with a deficit near 5.8% of GDP and public debt cited around €3.3–3.415 trillion, as investors await a Fitch ratings review expected on Friday.