François Bayrou Faces the Challenges: Justice, Global Economy, and Budgetary Future

In an interview with Le Parisien – Aujourd’hui en France on Saturday, April 5, Prime Minister François Bayrou addressed several pressing issues: the Rassemblement National’s planned demonstration, Donald Trump’s interference in French politics, the economic impact of U.S. tariff hikes, and France’s budgetary outlook through 2026. He also opened the door to a potential restructuring of the political center.

RN Demonstration: A Troubling Drift

As the Rassemblement National organizes a rally in support of Marine Le Pen, recently convicted in court, François Bayrou voiced serious concern:

“It is neither healthy nor desirable to protest against a court ruling,” he stated.

He called on all political parties participating that day to show responsibility and assured that public authorities would be on hand to prevent any disturbances.

Trump and Le Pen: Accusations of Interference

The Prime Minister also condemned remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who publicly expressed support for Marine Le Pen, even posting on social media: “Free Marine Le Pen!”

For Bayrou, this amounts to clear foreign interference:

“An illiberal international is at work, sweeping aside the principles of the rule of law as if they belonged to the past.”

Although he also referenced Viktor Orbán and Vladimir Putin, he clarified that he does not equate their actions, but remains alarmed by a broader trend of democratic backsliding.

U.S. Tariffs: A Major Threat to the French Economy

One of the most alarming parts of the interview relates to the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, which François Bayrou estimates could cost France “more than 0.5% of GDP.”

“The risk of job losses is significant, as is the risk of economic slowdown and a freeze on investment,” he warned.

This destabilization, he argues, will have long-term consequences on the global economy. He urged European and French industrialists and investors to apply political pressure on Washington, calling it their shared responsibility.

Staying the Fiscal Course Despite Uncertainty

Despite the economic turbulence, Bayrou reaffirmed his commitment to reducing the public deficit to 3% by 2029. However, he acknowledged that “the crisis could change everything” and that difficult decisions lie ahead.

He plans to outline the key choices for the 2026 budget to the French public on April 15, emphasizing the importance of transparency:

“These choices will not be made without the citizens. They will know everything about the situation.”

He highlighted two priorities: securing the nation’s independence, safety, and production capacity, and escaping the long-standing “curse of debt.”

Toward a Modem–Renaissance Merger?

Asked about the possibility of a merger between Modem and Renaissance, Bayrou expressed support for a centrist alliance in the spirit of unity:

“Division is weakness. Throughout my political life, I’ve always championed unity at the center.”

His openness echoes recent comments by Élisabeth Borne, who called for a clearer structure within the centrist bloc to better tackle upcoming challenges.