After his big announcement, François Legault did not share his position with anyone. A leadership race for the CAQ ensued, with several ministers, including Simon Jolin-Barrette, Christine Fréchette, and Éric Girard, positioning themselves to replace him.
Christine Fréchette is a Quebec politician born in 1970 in Trois-Rivières, Quebec. She is a member of the National Assembly for the riding of Sanguinet and a member of the Coalition Avenir Québec since 2022.
Christine Fréchette oversees language protection, identity, and the economy. She proposes an economic program focused on prosperity, government efficiency, and support for local businesses.“Our goal is to support Quebec businesses so they can grow and expand internationally.”
Simon Jolin-Barrette is a Quebec politician born on March 4, 1987, in Montreal, Quebec. He is a member of the National Assembly for Borduas and a member of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ).
Simon Jolin-Barette, considered a serious candidate, is coming from the nationalist wing of the CAQ. He is pushing for a draft constitution for Quebec to affirm Quebec’s autonomy and values.”We are taking strong steps to defend the values and interests of Quebecers.”
Éric Girard is a Quebec politician born on July 26, 1965, in Sept-Îles, Quebec. He is a member of the National Assembly for Groulx and a member of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ).
Éric Girard focuses on keeping Quebec’s finances under control while supporting economic growth. He wants to invest in key areas like healthcare and education without significantly increasing government spending. He also promotes tax cuts to leave more money in people’s pockets and stimulate the economy.“Quebec must manage its finances responsibly to ensure long-term stability for future generations.”
The new leader will have to confront pressures on the health system due to the economic effects of ongoing U.S.-Canada trade tensions. They will also have to manage Quebec’s finances, support economic growth, protect and promote the French language, and improve public services.
The next provincial election is on October 6, 2026. The race will be between the CAQ, the Liberal Parti, the Parti Québécois, Quebec Solidaire, and the Parti Conservateur du Québec.
