Prime Minister Michel Barnier, who took office on September 6, 2024, is navigating a challenging political landscape marked by a fragmented Assembly.

However, the Governor of the Bank of France, François Villeroy de Galhau, has deemed the government's goal of reducing the public deficit below 3% of GDP by 2027 as unrealistic.

His government faces a crucial test as it prepares to present the 2025 State Budget, which is due on October 9, just after the legal deadline.

In light of the difficult budget situation, Barnier has suggested potential tax increases, particularly targeting high incomes, a move that has created tension within the Macronist group.

Amidst this backdrop, Gabriel Attal, head of the Renaissance deputies, has requested urgent meetings with Barnier to clarify the government's political direction.

The atmosphere within the government is chaotic, with meetings being canceled last minute and a general sense of uncertainty prevailing.

Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin defended the government's record on tax cuts over the past seven years, emphasizing the need to maintain France's economic attractiveness.

Social partners have been received at Matignon, but Barnier's absence from these discussions has raised concerns about the government's clarity on key issues such as pensions and social policies.

As political negotiations continue between the Republicans and members of the Macron camp, Barnier is expected to announce his ministerial team by September 23.

Despite the ongoing negotiations, Macron has emphasized the need for the government to align with national unity, although the specifics of these discussions remain unclear.

In a more contentious political climate, Mathilde Panot from La France insoumise has urged her colleagues not to obstruct the examination of a procedure that could potentially lead to President Macron's impeachment.

The Assembly has validated the initiation of this impeachment procedure, which requires a two-thirds majority from both the Assembly and Senate to advance.