Macron to Appoint New Prime Minister After Crisis

French President Emmanuel Macron is hastily seeking to appoint a new Prime Minister, potentially by Wednesday, following the collapse of Michel Barnier's government due to a no-confidence vote. In an effort to stabilize his administration, Macron is consulting with various political parties, excluding the far-right National Rally and far-left France Unbowed, aiming to foster cooperation without forming a formal coalition. The political deadlock and the absence of a budget for 2025 are exacerbating France's economic challenges, with the European Commission already pursuing excessive deficit proceedings against the country. Critics argue that Macron's past policies have led to growing discontent among citizens, culminating in the recent vote of no confidence, which marked a historic unification of both extreme political factions against his government. Observers express skepticism about Macron's ability to maintain power amidst declining approval ratings and increasing political instability. The transitional arrangements by Barnier's caretaker Cabinet are crucial to ensure state operations continue until a new budget is adopted early next year.