France's latest political crisis could force President Emmanuel Macron to either appoint another weak government or call early legislative elections, both of which would prolong political instability, fuel social unrest and heighten financial risks. On Aug. 25, French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou called for a confidence vote on Sept. 8, as his government is struggling to secure legislative support for its 2026 budget, which includes 43.8 billion euros in spending cuts and other controversial measures, such as eliminating two public holidays to boost economic activity. While Bayrou acknowledged the risks associated with the vote, he said that the measure was necessary for France, which he said was experiencing ''a moment of hesitation and turmoil'' that required ''clarification.'' The largest opposition forces in the National Assembly, the far-right National Rally and the far-left France Unbowed, as well as smaller parties like the Socialist Party, have all said they will not support...
