The parliamentary government in France has once again collapsed, and right now no one knows exactly what is going to happen.  Prime Minister François Bayrou’s minority government has been taken down following a 364-194 parliamentary vote of no confidence.

(L-R) Prime Minister François Bayrou, President Emmanuel Macron

Increasingly, French political groups are now calling for French President Emmanuel Macron to resign and reorganize with new elections.  However, at this moment no one is sure what steps will come next.

FRANCE – PARIS — French lawmakers toppled Prime Minister François Bayrou’s minority government on Monday evening, thrusting the country deeper into a political crisis that will force President Emmanuel Macron to name a fifth premier in less than two years.

Three hundred and sixty four lawmakers voted to oust Bayrou, while 194 supported him. Macron’s office hasn’t said whether he will speak tonight.

But Macron has limited options to steer France out of this crisis. He is reportedly leaning toward appointing another prime minister — the fifth since January 2024 — but a new premier would face the same intractable parliament. So too would a technical government made up of civil servants.

Another snap election looks unappetizing, though, as it could easily deliver another hung parliament.

In an extreme scenario, Macron could even resign, but that’s highly unlikely given his past statements. (read more)