Macron, Bayrou Approval Ratings Fall Below 20% in France

French President Emmanuel Macron's approval rating has fallen to a historic low of 19 percent, marking the first time his popularity has dipped below 20 percent during his presidency. Prime Minister François Bayrou, appointed in December 2024, holds an even lower approval rating of 18 percent, making them the most unpopular executive duo in France since the Fifth Republic began in 1958. The decline in support follows Bayrou's proposal to eliminate two public holidays as part of a $50 billion cost-cutting plan to address a significant public deficit and high national debt, which has sparked strong public backlash. Macron and Bayrou's combined approval rating of 37 percent is significantly lower than previous administrations, such as during François Hollande's presidency, when the executive pair had a combined 51 percent approval. Public dissatisfaction is widespread, including among Macron's own supporters and business leaders, with the government facing challenges in securing consensus on fiscal policies. This political climate unfolds amid Paris preparing for a contentious budget debate and efforts to avoid EU penalties for overspending.