Quebec Parties’ Stand Amid Legault’s Absence and CAQ’s Struggles

Quebec’s political landscape is undergoing significant changes following the unexpected resignation of Premier François Legault. His decision to step down after over seven years in power has left the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) vulnerable. Legault cited dwindling public support and a call for change as primary reasons for his departure.

Impact of Legault’s Resignation

Francois Legault’s resignation occurred just days ago. He will continue to serve as interim leader until the CAQ elects a successor. The next provincial election is set for October 5, 2026. In the meantime, various political parties are reacting to this sudden shift.

Parti Québécois (PQ) Takes the Lead

The Parti Québécois, under the leadership of Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, has positioned itself as a major player in the evolving political scene. The PQ holds six seats, a slight increase from three in 2022, thanks to recent byelection wins in Jean-Talon, Terrebonne, and Arthabaska.

• Paul St-Pierre Plamondon advocates for Quebec independence.
• Recent CROP survey reveals that 56% of Quebecers aged 18 to 34 support independence, a notable rise not seen in three decades.
• He criticizes Legault’s supposed “third way” approach, suggesting it fails to recognize priorities for independence.

Coalition Avenir Québec’s (CAQ) Declining Support

The CAQ, which previously held a commanding presence with 90 seats in the National Assembly following the 2022 elections, now has dropped to 79 as support wanes. A recent Pallas Data poll shows only 10% of voters currently support the CAQ. This decline is attributed to several factors, including criticism over policy failures.

• Leadership contest for the CAQ is set for mid-April 2026.
• Potential candidates include Economy Minister Christine Fréchette and Finance Minister Eric Girard.

Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ) Undergoing Leadership Changes

The Quebec Liberal Party is also in the midst of a leadership transition after Pablo Rodriguez’s exit amid scandal. Marc Tanguay is acting as the interim leader, while candidates like Charles Milliard and Mario Roy are vying for the position.

• The PLQ holds 18 seats, a decrease from 21 in 2022.
• A Léger poll indicated PLQ support dropped from 25% to 21% following the scandal.

Québec Solidaire (QS) Struggling in Polls

Québec Solidaire has seen a drop in popularity, now holding 11 seats. Recent surveys suggest the party may lose support in the upcoming election. Under co-spokespeople Ruba Ghazal and Sol Zanetti’s leadership, the party has focused on feminism and environmental issues.

• Polls indicate only 6% of voters currently support QS, down from 15% in 2022.
• Former co-spokesperson Manon Massé has announced she will not run in the next election.

Conclusion

As Quebec’s political parties adapt to the fallout from François Legault’s resignation, the landscape remains uncertain. The upcoming provincial elections will be critical for all parties as they seek to redefine their platforms and leadership. The CAQ, PQ, PLQ, and QS must navigate through leadership changes and public sentiment to remain competitive.