Government starts 2027 budget talks without Assembly support

The government has begun budget discussions for 2027 despite lacking a majority in the National Assembly. This marks the start of a challenging political process, as the government faces significant opposition and does not have the necessary support to pass the budget through the legislative body.

Political uncertainty surrounds budget debates

The discussions for the 2027 financial bill are scheduled to begin on Tuesday. However, the government is in a climate of political isolation and uncertainty, as it does not have a majority in the National Assembly to ensure the budget's passage. The executive aims to have the budget adopted by December 31, but this goal seems difficult to achieve.

Opposition seeks to block budget progress

The opposition appears determined to hinder the budget's progress. Socialists, who previously demanded a corrective letter from the Prime Minister on the budget, have submitted a preliminary rejection motion. Estelle Mercier, leader of the socialist faction, criticized the Prime Minister for showing no sign of compromise and described the motion as a "summons" to the government.

Budget lacks major reforms and faces rejection

The 2027 financial bill was already rejected in committee before reaching the National Assembly. It contains no major reforms and is expected to only slightly reduce the public deficit, which would decrease from 5.4% to 5% of gross domestic product. This target was already set for 2026, and the Prime Minister now believes it may not be met.

Government may use constitutional tool to push budget

If the budget is rejected, the government could be forced to use Article 49.3 of the Constitution, which allows it to adopt the text without a vote. If no budget is passed by the end of the year, a special law could extend the 2026 budget until a new one is adopted.