French Left Divided Over Socialist Support for Bayrou Government

Socialists face backlash after backing François Bayrou's government while negotiating concessions on key policies.

The Socialist Party chose not to support a motion of censure against Prime Minister François Bayrou's government, leading to tensions with La France Insoumise
LFI leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon criticized the Socialists for compromising, accusing them of betrayal and alleging the concessions they secured were misleading.
Among the concessions, the government abandoned a plan to increase sick leave waiting days for public servants but maintained a controversial 10% reduction in their sick leave pay.
Former President François Hollande defended the Socialists' decision, emphasizing the importance of negotiation over confrontation in advancing policy goals.
Hollande also predicted two left-wing candidates in the 2027 presidential election, further highlighting the growing divide between the Socialist Party and LFI.