Today with David McCullagh Today with David McCullagh

The latest on the protests engulfing France

Oct 19, 2026 · 7m

Summary

David McCullagh discusses the severe unrest in France, where student protests over the cost of living escalated into widespread riots, resulting in over 2,400 arrests and significant property damage. Senator Hélène Conway-Mouret criticizes President Macron’s response as weak, highlighting parliamentary inquiries into police failures and the coordinated nature of the violence. She warns that the turmoil could diminish France’s international standing and fuel political instability ahead of upcoming elections.

Topics discussed

Overview of unrest and Macron's crisis meeting Introduction of guests and initial reaction to speech Senator critiques weak message and notes coordinated violence Personal shock and concern over France's international image Political turmoil, cost of living, and external influences Demands for transparency, police reform, and European context Journalist analysis: statistics, Yellow Vests, and separating protest from riots
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