December 9th saw French media overwhelmingly focused on the critical vote for the Social Security budget in the National Assembly. Early reports highlighted Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's precarious position, with Édouard Philippe recommending abstention to avoid "chaos." Throughout the morning, various parties weighed their options, including potential abstentions from the Green party, though former President François Hollande pledged his support.
By the early afternoon, discussions intensified around scenarios for the vote, with the Horizons group confirming a "large majority" abstention. The government announced an additional 8 billion euros for health spending between 2025 and 2026.
In the evening, the National Assembly narrowly adopted the Social Security budget, with the Ecologists ultimately abstaining, securing a political victory for the Prime Minister.