French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu Says He Will Pass Budget Without a Vote

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Monday, January 19, 2026, that he will use a constitutional mechanism to pass the country's budget without a vote in Parliament. This decision follows four months of unsuccessful negotiations due to the lack of a majority coalition. Lecornu cited the need to address the country's deficit as the reason for using Article 49.3 of the Constitution. The move opens his government to potential votes of no confidence, with both far-left and far-right parties announcing their intention to introduce such motions. France has been in a political deadlock since the 2024 elections resulted in a fractured Parliament. While Lecornu's downfall is unlikely in the short term, the situation highlights ongoing political instability.