The French government is barreling toward a collapse that would plunge the country into political chaos and could have economic ripple effects in Europe. Barring a late surprise, a no-confidence vote backed by both the far right and far left is expected to gather enough votes on Wednesday to bring down Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s administration,

The French government has collapsed after Prime Minister Michel Barnier was ousted in a no-confidence vote. MPs voted overwhelmingly in support of the motion against him - just three months after he was appointed by President Emmanuel Macron.

The vote took place after Mr Barnier used special powers to force a social security budget through the country's lower house of parliament.

President Emmanuel Macron affirms he will serve the rest of his term, which ends in 2027. He will need to appoint a new prime minister for the second time in three months.

National Assembly President Yael Braun-Pivet announced on Dec. 4 a no-confidence vote against the French government with no obvious alternative in the wings.

France’s far-right and left-wing lawmakers have joined together to vote on a no-confidence motion that forces Prime Minister Michel Barnier and his Cabinet to resign. Mr. Barnier pushed through a contentious 2025 budget without parliamentary approval.

French lawmakers are voting on a no-confidence motion that could bring down the prime minister and his cabinet for the first time since 1962

Michel Barnier is expected to step down today after being ousted in a no-confidence vote