French PM Bayrou Expected to Survive No-Confidence Vote

French Prime Minister François Bayrou is anticipated to survive a no-confidence vote set for Wednesday, with support from both the Socialist Party and the far-right National Rally, despite significant opposition from the hard-left France Unbowed, Communists, and Greens. Bayrou, appointed by President Emmanuel Macron, invoked a controversial constitutional article to pass the 2025 budget without a vote, which allowed for the no-confidence motion to be proposed. The National Rally, led by Jordan Bardella, indicated that they would not support the motion, arguing that the country needs stability during uncertain times. Analysts predict a substantial chance of future challenges to Bayrou's administration, particularly after the budget is fully enacted. While both the Socialists and National Rally have expressed criticism of the budget, they agree on the need to avoid further political instability. Bayrou's government faces scrutiny as it seeks to implement spending cuts and tax hikes to address France's budget deficit.