On May 6, 2025, a notable debate emerged in France regarding the government's approach to fiscal policy and public engagement. Charles de Courson, a deputy from the LIOT party and the general rapporteur of the budget at the National Assembly, did not hold back in his criticism of President Emmanuel Macron's earlier statement, "quoi qu'il en coûte" (whatever it costs), which he described as a serious error in light of the country's mounting debt.
During his appearance on La Grande interview Europe 1-CNews, de Courson expressed his concerns about the implications of Macron's declaration. He pointed out that such statements could lead to significant financial repercussions for France, especially as the nation grapples with a debt that has reached alarming levels. "The President of the Republic committed a serious error when he said 'quoi qu'il en coûte'," de Courson stated emphatically, highlighting the need for a more prudent fiscal approach.
As discussions about France's financial future continue, the topic of referendums has resurfaced in political discourse. Macron is expected to address the nation soon, with plans to propose several referendums on various issues, including the budget and potentially the amount of school holidays. This initiative has sparked a mix of reactions among lawmakers and the public.
Prime Minister François Bayrou has shown support for the idea of referendums, but he has emphasized that they should be focused on gauging public opinion regarding the 2026 budget, which aims to achieve nearly 40 billion euros in savings compared to the current year's budget. This proposed budget cut is a response to the increasing financial strain and aims to stabilize the country's economic situation.
However, de Courson raised questions about the efficacy and relevance of holding multiple referendums on such topics. He remarked, "I don't understand anything," reflecting his confusion over the proposed themes for public votes. He specifically challenged the notion of holding a referendum on the school calendar, questioning its appropriateness as a subject for direct public voting. "What is a referendum on school time?" he asked, clearly frustrated with the idea. "This is not within the scope of a referendum," he insisted, indicating that some issues may be too complex for such a simplified decision-making process.
The debate over the use of referendums in France is not new. In recent years, various attempts have been made to engage the public directly in governmental decisions. Macron's administration has seen a mix of citizen consultations and public debates, but the effectiveness of these initiatives remains a topic of contention.
As Macron prepares to unveil his plans, the political landscape in France is charged with anticipation and skepticism. The upcoming referendums, if realized, could mark a significant shift in how the French government interacts with its citizens on fiscal matters. However, with voices like de Courson's questioning the relevance of these public votes, it remains to be seen whether such initiatives will resonate with the electorate or simply add to the existing confusion.
Moreover, the implications of the proposed budget cuts are profound. Many citizens are concerned about how these savings will affect public services, education, and overall quality of life. The call for a referendum on the budget reflects a desire for transparency and accountability from the government, as citizens seek to understand how their tax money is being managed amidst rising debt.
In the days leading up to Macron's announcement, political analysts and commentators will undoubtedly scrutinize the proposed themes for referendums, debating their practicality and potential impact. As the conversation unfolds, the French public will be watching closely, eager to see how their government plans to navigate the complex challenges ahead.
Ultimately, the outcome of this political discourse could shape the future of governance in France, impacting not only fiscal policy but also the relationship between the government and its citizens. As de Courson aptly noted, the financial decisions made today will have lasting consequences, and the need for careful consideration and public engagement has never been more critical.
