On December 23, 2024, François Bayrou unveiled his new government, aiming to reconcile French politics amid rising tensions and expectations. This government, intended to stabilize the political climate, succeeded the administration of Michel Barnier, which was ousted just three months prior due to a motion of censure.
Bayrou's cabinet boasts notable figures, including former Prime Ministers Élisabeth Borne and Manuel Valls, alongside Gérald Darmanin, who returns to the politics as Minister of Justice. The team mixes right and left-wing politicians yet has faced criticism for its lack of genuine leftist representation. Indeed, the government largely consists of right-leaning officials, including Bruno Retailleau at the Interior Ministry.
Bayrou declared on the evening of the government's announcement, "I am proud of this team of experienced individuals who will work to reconcile and regain the trust of all French citizens." The premier's emphasis on experience can be seen as both reassuring and controversial, as many observers question the effectiveness of previous administrations represented within his team.
Despite this experienced roster, gaps remain, particularly as the new government faces mounting opposition. “None of the conditions for a non-censure pact have been respected,” stated Olivier Faure, the Secretary of the Socialist Party (PS), indicating hard feelings toward the absence of left-wing members and policies. He criticized the perceived alignment with extreme right elements and minimal concessions to progressive legislation.
Faure also signaled the readiness of the PS to challenge the government through formal opposition tactics, underlining the brewing tensions. “I have not heard any definitive plans for changing course or reducing reliance on right-wing extremism,” he remarked. This sentiment echoes broader frustration among left-leaning factions who feel sidelined.
The pressure doesn't only come from the left. Several figures within Les Républicains (LR) have expressed reservations, calling for stringent accountability from Bayrou. Laurent Wauquiez remarked on the need for “very demanding” support, hinting at potential withdrawal of backing if the government's actions stray too far from party ideals.
On the far end of the political spectrum, the nationalistic Rassemblement National (RN) has struck its own tone, with leader Jordan Bardella quipping, “Thank goodness the ridiculous doesn’t kill,” dubbing the new cabinet as the “coalition of failure.” Such remarks typify the fervor surrounding any collaboration with the extreme right, which Bayrou seems to have navigated cautiously.
With all eyes now on the National Assembly, the looming January 14 statement of general policy from Bayrou marks a pivotal moment. He confirmed he won't seek formal confidence from the Assembly but rather anticipates reactionary motions of censure based on his government's policies. Bayrou has projected optimism about his cabinet's capacity to stave off criticism: “I am convinced the actions I outline will lead us not to censorship.”
Meanwhile, the historical challenges are significant. One major area of focus will be addressing France’s troubling budget deficit, projected to reach 6.1% of GDP by 2024. Addressing his new finance minister, Eric Lombard, Bayrou has charged the top economic mind with the urgent task of crafting workable budgetary measures capable of withstanding legislative scrutiny.
The opposition is far from idle. Jean-Luc Mélenchon of La France Insoumise (LFI) has already suggested diagnostic alternatives to Bayrou’s approach, emphasizing the need for clear communication about fiscal policies. “Are the French prepared for the changes being proposed?” he questioned, reflecting widespread apprehension about government shifts post-election. The LFI has committed to submitting motions of censure as early as January 16, following the prime minister’s policy statement.
Despite such pressures, the Bayrou government has launched its mission amid historical scrutiny, inviting greater dialogue and collaboration among France's deeply divided political factions. Borne’s call for stability and collaborative governance highlights the urgent need for new alliances as the government grapples with substantial policy challenges.
While the road remains fraught with peril, François Bayrou's challenge lies not only in steering government actions but also soothing rampant political discontent. The upcoming weeks promise to test the mettle of his administration as they address not only budgetary concerns but also the fracture of alliances across the parliamentary spectrum.
