Revolutionary Flames Reignited in France? The VOC that could change the French Political Landscape for Years to come.

By Jacob Kehoe

Political flames and revolutionary memories fill the air in France as the European Union’s second-largest economy is set to oust its fourth Prime Minister in just two years’ time. French PM François Bayrou is scheduled to go through a vote of confidence on Monday, September 8^th, in which he faces almost certain defeat. The PM appointed by President Macron in December 2024 failed to garner support for the President’s sweeping legislature, which includes $ 44 billion in cuts, including the elimination of select public holidays. The public and many rival political parties, such as the right-wing National Rally, appear to welcome the failed vote of confidence.

The failed vote of confidence is not just a cry for help but an inclination of further struggles within the French government, which have plagued the Fourth Republic as of late. This latest political fiasco comes within reports that debt has soared to about 114% of GDP, and last year’s budget deficit nearly doubled the EU’s 3% threshold, which raises red flags among credit agencies and financial markets alike. Furthering President Macron’s struggles is the recent failed snap election in 2024, which is hindering Macron from dissolving parliament. With François Bayrou’s defeat almost imminent, President Macron now has the task of selecting a new prime minister capable of taming an uneasy legislature as well as easing the pressures of rising right-wing populace both within the population and within the government.

Bayrou’s impending fall will likely be followed by more turmoil and a belief that the current democratic system no longer delivers decisive governance. The people of France continue to grow restless, and a fourth consecutive failed prime minister with economic problems on the rise might just be the tipping point for the French people. Is another French revolution bound to happen, or will the French government come together under a more leftist coalition to save what many people believe is a failing government? Only time will tell.