MONTREAL In a significant political development in Quebec, Premier François Legault has announced that he will resign from his position in the upcoming months. This announcement comes as he prepares for the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) to initiate the search for a new leader ahead of the next provincial election, which is scheduled for October 5, 2026.
Legault, who has been at the helm of the CAQ since its inception in 2011, has led the party to victory in two consecutive majority elections in 2018 and 2022. His leadership has been instrumental in the party’s rise in Quebec politics, making his impending resignation a pivotal moment for the CAQ.
As Legault steps back, the party's executive team is set to convene on the evening following his announcement to discuss the logistics of the upcoming leadership race. This includes establishing a timeline and potential debates among candidates, as the party gears up for what will be its first-ever leadership contest.
Simon Dabin, a lecturer at Université de Montréal, suggests that one of the most pressing challenges for the new leader will involve addressing the issue of sovereignty. With the Parti Québécois currently leading in the polls and threatening a referendum on sovereignty if elected, the CAQ’s response to this challenge will be critical in shaping its future and electoral prospects.
In addition to preparing for the leadership race, the CAQ must also focus on the immediate task of contesting a byelection in the Chicoutimi riding, which adds urgency to their internal transition. The timeline for both the leadership race and the byelection will likely influence the candidates' strategies and the party's positioning.
As of now, no official candidates have declared their intention to run for the party leadership. However, several names are emerging as potential contenders, including notable cabinet ministers such as Sonia LeBel, Simon Jolin-Barrette, and Bernard Drainville. Their candidacies could shape the future dynamics of the CAQ, as each brings a distinct perspective and vision for the party.
Ultimately, Legault’s resignation sets the stage for a transformative period within the CAQ, where the new leader will need to navigate both internal party challenges and external political pressures in the lead-up to the provincial election. The successful management of these aspects will be crucial for the CAQ's continued relevance and electoral success in Quebec’s competitive political landscape.
