Legault Expresses Confidence in CAQ's Future Despite Impending Departure
In his first public comments since announcing his planned departure from politics, Quebec Premier François Legault expressed unwavering confidence in the future of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) on Wednesday. Speaking to reporters in Quebec City, Legault emphasized that his party remains "more relevant than ever" in addressing Quebec's pressing challenges, despite the impending departure of several veteran ministers from his government.
A Third Way Between Traditional Parties
Legault positioned the CAQ as essential alternative to Quebec's traditional political forces, arguing that neither the Parti Québécois nor the Quebec Liberals can adequately address the province's dual priorities of economic stability and French language protection.
"I think right now we need — and I return to my two big priorities — an economic party," Legault stated. "I certainly don't see that in the PQ. And we need a party that will stop the decline of French in Montreal. I certainly don't see that in the Liberal party."
The premier reiterated his hope that the upcoming October election would focus on these substantive issues rather than what he characterized as "change for the sake of change."
Neutral Stance on Leadership Succession
Addressing the question of who should succeed him as party leader, Legault made clear he would maintain a neutral position throughout the leadership contest. "I will not be backing any one candidate and will stay neutral in the leadership race," he affirmed.
This declaration comes as several prominent CAQ figures have begun positioning themselves for potential leadership bids. Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette and Environment Minister Bernard Drainville both confirmed on Wednesday they are seriously considering entering the race.
"I wish to inform you that my decision is not taken, but I am in serious reflection," Jolin-Barrette told reporters, emphasizing that the CAQ represents both "a strong economy to protect the pocketbooks of Quebecers, and an uninhibited nationalism."
Cabinet Departures and Party Strength
Legault downplayed concerns about the departure of cabinet heavyweights like Municipal Affairs Minister Geneviève Guilbault and Education Minister Sonia LeBel, suggesting such transitions are normal after nearly eight years in government.
"We have a very strong team and I remain confident in the future," Legault asserted. "The CAQ has a very, very strong team."
The premier indicated he intends to continue governing until a new leader is selected, likely in mid-April, while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining party unity during a leadership transition.
Leadership Contenders Emerge
As potential candidates begin to declare their intentions, distinct factions within the CAQ are becoming more apparent. Economy Minister Christine Fréchette, who has gained significant support from colleagues including Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière, represents what observers describe as the party's economic wing.
Meanwhile, Jolin-Barrette and Drainville are seen as more closely aligned with the CAQ's nationalist-identity faction. Drainville, a former Parti Québécois cabinet minister, told reporters his family has given him approval to potentially run, emphasizing his vision of a party that is "nationalist but also economic, and close to the regions and close to the people and families."
Notably, Finance Minister Eric Girard announced he will not seek the leadership, concluding he could not win. Girard indicated he will run again in the October general election and suggested the CAQ needs to reconsider some nationalist policies to make them more inclusive.
"At times, not all Quebecers saw themselves in what we were proposing," Girard acknowledged.
International and Economic Context
During his news conference, Legault also commented on international affairs, praising Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The premier expressed concern about trade relations with the United States under President Donald Trump, noting that renegotiation of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement appears unlikely.
"I would like it, but it looks like Mr. Trump doesn't want to negotiate and we cannot be sure it will still be on the table," Legault said. "So I worry about that. We have to be able to work on a Plan B."
The CAQ is scheduled to announce the rules for its leadership race on Thursday at a news conference in Quebec City, setting the stage for what promises to be a significant political transition in Quebec politics.
