Receptions, trips, Brigitte Macron: is the presidency a good budget student?

"Everyone will have to participate in the efforts" to reduce the public deficit, François Bayrou insisted Tuesday evening. But what about the highest levels of government? Is the Élysée Palace setting an example in controlling its spending? The Court of Auditors has just delivered its annual audit of the Élysée Palace's accounts for 2024. Good news: for the last financial year, the Presidency of the Republic posted a positive balance of €6.7 million, after a deficit of €8.3 million last year. The Palace collected €130 million in revenue (+10.9%), for €123.3 million in expenses (-2%). "In 2024, the financial situation of the presidential services was brought under control," the Court emphasized. But let's remain cautious: this budgetary breath of fresh air is mainly due to the increase in the Élysée's allocation, brought to 122.6 million euros this year, an increase of 11% compared to 2023. Moreover, certain amounts continue to concern the wise men in the street...