Speaking on France Info this Tuesday morning, MP Clémence Guetté delivered a sharp critique of France’s current security, diplomatic, and budgetary situation. Voicing concerns over a surge in violence targeting prisons and strongly criticizing the government’s diplomatic stance towards Algeria, the left-wing lawmaker also warned of the dangers of a “disguised austerity” policy.
On the diplomatic front, Guetté condemned the government’s handling of the crisis between France and Algeria, marked by the reciprocal expulsion of diplomats. She described the situation as a failure of the Retaillot approach, calling for a return to “calm and professional diplomacy.” According to her, the executive has over-personalized bilateral relations, to the detriment of their effectiveness.
However, it was on public finances that Clémence Guetté was most outspoken. She labeled the executive’s announcement of an additional €40 billion in spending cuts for 2026 — following the €50 billion already approved for 2025 — as “ill-prepared” and “dangerous.” In her view, the current budget strategy is misguided, targeting essential public spending while sparing tax breaks granted to the wealthiest individuals and large corporations.
She denounced the government’s continued adherence to a “silent austerity” that fails to address structural tax inequality. “If we don’t restore tax justice, no one will accept working more or receiving fewer benefits,” she warned. Guetté advocated for the implementation of the Zucman tax on ultra-high-net-worth individuals, which is estimated to generate €13 billion annually — enough to cover a significant portion of the savings being demanded. She also proposed eliminating certain tax loopholes and intensifying efforts against tax fraud.
Asked about a potential motion of no confidence, Guetté stated that the Socialist Party would assume its responsibilities depending on the actual content of the proposed budget cuts. If certain red lines are crossed, supporting a motion would be considered.
With two months to go before the Socialist Party’s congress, she reiterated her support for Olivier Faure, praising his leadership for giving the party a stronger voice within the left. She also called for a broad coalition in view of upcoming elections and expressed hope that figures such as Raphaël Glucksmann would take on greater responsibilities — including, potentially, at the presidential level.