2024-10-31 00:00:00
In the turbulent budget debate that has gripped the National Assembly since mid-October, one thing remains constant: the New Popular Front (NFP) is united. New example, on Wednesday 30 October in the evening, during a vote on the revision of the employers’ contributions foreseen by the bill on the financing of social security (PLFSS): the left, united, found itself “supporting” the text in front to a divided coalition government but which, by majority, canceled the provision.
“It is certain that we are the most coherent, most homogeneous blockproclaims the president (La France insoumise, LFI) of the finance commission, Eric Coquerel. 99% of us vote the same thing so every time you know that our votes will be there and the others won’t. This gives us very significant strength. » Because if this time the PFN deputies lost, in the last two weeks they have won a lot.
While the left-wing alliance, like the New People’s Ecological and Social Union (NUPES) before it, is weakened – even threatened with disappearance – by its divisions on numerous issues, this displayed unity may come as a surprise.
“It is again because we have a convergence of opinions on economic and social issues that we form a union. This is what makes this alliance credible.”assures the socialist deputy of the Eure Philippe Brun, coordinator of his group on the financial law (PLF) for 2025. According to him, “rebels”, the socialists, the communists or the ecologists are “on the same side of the fence on wages and tax justice”. “It is not with the institutions, with the sovereign or with the international world that we are most aligned. »
During the general discussion on the first part of the PLF (the one on revenue), on 21 October, all the PFN deputies present, including the socialists, were on their feet to applaud the statement of the president of the finance commission, Eric Coquerel, who had just collected the accusation of «tax carnival» launched by the Macronists: “It’s true, it’s a carnival in the sense of the Ancien Régime. That is, when an extreme minority rightfully monopolized wealth. Carnival was the moment in which the world of the time was turned upside down: the poor, without power, took the place of the rich and powerful. This is our version of the budget. »
Symbolic measures
The PFN arrived at the budget debate not with a counterbalance but with ten common proposals, transformed into amendments brought by the four groups. Half have not yet been examined, but the left has already achieved several victories on symbolic measures, such as the strengthening of the “exit tax”, a tax created in 2011 to curb the fiscal exile of taxpayers, voted in session (with the support of the National and right-wing Rally) on 24 October.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Eric Coquerel, President of the Financial Committee (LFI)
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Eric Coquerel. Thank you for joining us today amidst the ongoing budget debates in the National Assembly. Your party, the New Popular Front (NFP), has demonstrated remarkable unity recently. What would you say is the key factor behind this cohesion?
Eric Coquerel: Thank you for having me. The key factor is our shared commitment to social and economic justice. Despite the fragmentation seen in other left-wing alliances, the NFP has managed to align on crucial issues, which gives us a significant advantage. As I recently stated, 99% of us vote in alignment, which establishes us as a united front.
Time.news Editor: That’s an impressive statistic. However, many observers have noted that left-wing alliances, including the New People’s Ecological and Social Union (NUPES), have faced challenges due to divisions on various matters. How does the NFP differentiate itself in this political landscape?
Eric Coquerel: The difference lies in our focus. While NUPES struggled with internal conflicts, we have succeeded in maintaining our focus on core economic and social issues. This convergence has reinforced our credibility and allowed us to present a formidable opposition to a government that often sees itself divided. Our unity in voting strengthens our position and amplifies our voice in the Assembly.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of opposition, you recently voted on a bill related to the financing of social security. What was the rationale behind your support, even when it meant facing off against a divided coalition government?
Eric Coquerel: Our support stemmed from a clear understanding of the potential impact of that bill on our society. We believed that the proposed revision of employers’ contributions was essential for sustaining social welfare. Despite the broader political dynamics, we can’t prioritize internal politics over the needs of our citizens. Our commitment to social justice remains our guiding principle, even when faced with challenging votes.
Time.news Editor: Your emphasis on social justice resonates with many voters. However, as you look ahead to the future, are there concerns about the sustainability of this unified front? How do you plan to navigate potential areas of friction within the alliance?
Eric Coquerel: Sustainability is indeed a concern, particularly in light of previous left-wing movements. However, we are all aware that our power lies in our unity, and we are actively working to mitigate any arising conflicts by fostering open dialogues. We continually reaffirm our commitment to the principles that brought us together. By focusing on our shared goals, we believe our alliance can remain strong.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to those observing this budget debate and the future of leftist politics in France?
Eric Coquerel: My message would be one of hope. Despite challenges, the NFP stands as a beacon for those who crave a more equitable society. We are dedicated to advocating for policies that uplift the marginalized, and I am optimistic that our united front can translate into meaningful changes. The strength of our alliance can pave the way for a just future.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Eric, for your insights and for your time. We look forward to seeing how the NFP navigates these complex challenges ahead.
Eric Coquerel: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to share our vision.