• French President Emmanuel Macron's approval rating falls to 24%, marking a 2-point decline in the latest Elabe poll.
  • The drop continues a trend of historically low popularity during his second term, with ratings fluctuating between mid-20s to low 30s this year.
  • Political analysts point to pension reforms, economic struggles, and strategic missteps as key factors eroding public support.

A Persistent Slide in Popularity

Emmanuel Macron's approval rating has slipped another two points to 24% in the latest Elabe survey, continuing what political observers describe as a "historic trough" for a French president in the Fifth Republic. The figure represents Macron's second-lowest reading this year, just three points above his record low of 21% recorded earlier in 2025.

Sources close to the Élysée Palace acknowledge the challenges but emphasize that Macron remains focused on governing rather than polling numbers. "The president is fully engaged in addressing France's economic and geopolitical priorities," said one official who requested anonymity to discuss internal matters.

The Weight of Unpopular Reforms

Macron's determination to push through pension reforms - raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 - continues to cast a long shadow over his presidency. The measure, implemented in 2023 after months of massive protests, remains particularly toxic among older voters who once formed part of his base.

Economic headwinds have compounded the political damage. With France's budget deficit stubbornly high at 5.8% of GDP and youth unemployment hovering near 20%, the former investment banker's economic credentials have taken a hit. Market analysts note that while Macron successfully avoided a debt crisis, growth remains anemic at just 0.8% for the first half of 2025.

A Fragmented Political Landscape

The president's troubles coincide with dramatic shifts in France's political alignment. Marine Le Pen's Rassemblement National now consistently polls above 30%, while Macron's own Renaissance party struggles to maintain its centrist coalition. The dissolution of the National Assembly last year - intended to consolidate power - instead created lasting instability, with the far-right nearly capturing the legislature.

With constitutional constraints limiting Macron's options for fresh elections before 2026, the Élysée appears focused on foreign policy initiatives where the president retains stronger public support. However, as one senior government adviser conceded, "There are no quick fixes for these numbers."