RN budget criticized for lack of credibility

The budget proposal from the Rassemblement National (RN) has been criticized for relying on two main arguments: savings from stopping immigration and reducing France’s financial contribution to Europe. Critics argue the plan lacks credible economic backing and is based on long-standing, controversial claims.

Historical stance on immigration questioned

The RN’s position on immigration has not changed since the 1990 "Milloz report" by an ENA graduate and former FN official, which claimed immigration costs nothing and provides no benefits. This stance is seen as outdated and unsupported by current economic analysis.

Legal and political challenges to reducing EU contributions

The party has not acknowledged that reducing France’s financial contribution to Europe requires unanimous agreement from member states. This would also need a parliamentary majority and could imply leaving the European Union, a move the RN has officially renounced due to the loss of European funding.

RN’s budget team lacks administrative experience

The RN’s "man of the budget," deputy Jean-Philippe Tanguy, has a background in business and education but no administrative experience. The party claims its voters prefer in-house experts from sovereignist groups over "Mozarts of finance," or technocrats with academic backgrounds.

Experts cited lack alignment with RN policies

The RN cites experts like Jacques Rueff and Maurice Allais, but Allais supported free trade between economically similar countries and protection only against dumping. The party’s expert circle, the Horaces reflection circle, includes senior civil servants, though their involvement is discreet and not a career advantage.

Uncertainty about civil servants’ future roles

If the RN wins power, it remains unclear whether senior civil servants from major state bodies will support the new government, either by continuing public service or due to personal conviction. Some past experts have already left the party.