A Turning Point: Michel Barnier Forced to Resign Following a Historic Vote

Prime Minister Michel Barnier bows out after a stinging defeat. On Wednesday, December 4, the National Assembly passed the motion of no confidence filed by the Nouveau Front Populaire (NFP), gathering 331 votes—well above the 288 needed to topple the government. This outcome forces Michel Barnier to resign, plunging the country into significant political and budgetary uncertainty.

A Historic Motion

The no-confidence vote came in response to Michel Barnier’s use of Article 49.3 of the Constitution to push through the Social Security funding bill without a parliamentary vote. This controversial move sparked a sharp reaction in parliament, resulting in two motions of no confidence. While the one filed by the Rassemblement National (RN) is now moot following the adoption of the NFP’s motion, its symbolic weight remains in this tense political climate.

A Precedent 60 Years Ago

This dramatic outcome is unprecedented since a similar event in the Fifth Republic’s history: the fall of Georges Pompidou’s government in 1962, also triggered by a motion of no confidence. At that time, General de Gaulle responded by dissolving the National Assembly. However, Emmanuel Macron faces a constitutional restriction that prevents dissolution within a year of legislative elections, leaving this option off the table.

Far-Reaching Consequences

Before the vote, the President expressed confidence, dismissing the likelihood of an alliance between the RN and the NFP. Michel Barnier, for his part, appealed to the “sense of responsibility” among MPs, urging them to prioritize the “greater good of the nation.” Nevertheless, the deputies chose to oust the government, marking an abrupt end to Michel Barnier’s three-month tenure at Matignon.

This vote ushers in a period of uncertainty for the country, with a new Prime Minister needing to be appointed swiftly to ensure political and budgetary stability.