French PM Bayrou survives dual no-confidence votes, secures budget

French Prime Minister François Bayrou has survived two no-confidence votes following his use of a constitutional provision to push through the 2025 budget without parliamentary approval. The first motion saw only 128 votes in favor, far short of the 289 needed to unseat him, while the second motion, initiated by the hard-left La France Insoumise (LFI), also failed to gather sufficient support. Bayrou's budget, which includes significant cost-cutting measures, has drawn criticism but was approved after concessions to the Socialists regarding healthcare and education spending. This approval marks a pivotal moment for Bayrou, who has been tasked with stabilizing a fragmented parliament following President Emmanuel Macron's controversial decision to call snap elections. As Bayrou navigates ongoing political challenges, including potential future no-confidence motions, the stability of his government remains uncertain amid calls for Macron's resignation. Analysts express concern over the implications of a divided parliament and the future of Macron's presidency.