Premier Legault Insists on Normal Government Operations Amid CAQ Leadership Transition
In a heartfelt address to his Coalition Avenir Québec caucus, Premier François Legault made it clear that the work of governing Quebec must proceed without interruption, even as the party prepares to select his successor. The emotional speech, delivered in Trois-Rivières as MNAs gathered for a pre-session meeting, underscored Legault's commitment to maintaining stability during this political transition period.
No Pause for Quebec Government
Legault directly addressed concerns about potential government slowdowns during the leadership campaign, stating emphatically that putting Quebec "on pause" was completely unacceptable. "We are here for two days," Legault told his caucus. "Putting the government or Quebec on pause is out of the question, out of the question."
The premier acknowledged that leadership candidates would naturally want to propose changes, but emphasized that many policy areas already enjoy consensus within the party and government. "I understand the candidates will want to make certain changes. That's normal," Legault said. "But there are quite a few subjects where there is a consensus and we have a duty to move them forward."
Emotional Farewell with Optimistic Outlook
Legault, who founded the CAQ in 2011 and led it to two consecutive majority governments, expressed mixed emotions about his impending departure from politics. "It's a last caucus for me," he revealed. "It is with a twinge of sadness that I see you today. But I am optimistic about the future."
The premier reflected on the party's achievements, noting that building two majority governments in relatively short order represented significant political success. He praised both leadership candidates—Christine Fréchette and Bernard Drainville—as excellent choices to continue the party's work.
"I have the impression I am handing you the baby," Legault told his caucus. "But I say to you, if you want to make me happy, continue the work we started. No pause, no prorogation. Let's move Quebec forward. Let's get to work."
Leadership Campaign Dynamics Unfold
Even as Legault emphasized continued governance, the leadership campaign dominated hallway discussions at the caucus meeting. Both Fréchette and Drainville used the gathering to announce new supporters for their respective campaigns.
Bernard Drainville entered the meeting accompanied by newly declared supporters Shirley Dorismond from the Marie-Victorin riding and Luc Provençal from Beauce Nord. Meanwhile, Christine Fréchette secured a significant endorsement from Jean-François Roberge, the minister responsible for immigration, secularism, and French language matters.
Féchette's campaign now boasts support from sixteen CAQ MNAs, including six current ministers, demonstrating substantial backing within the party establishment. This development suggests competitive dynamics between the two leadership contenders as they seek to position themselves as Legault's legitimate successor.
Continuity Amid Political Transition
Legault's message to his caucus emphasized the importance of maintaining governmental momentum during leadership transitions. The premier, who hugged both leadership candidates before his speech, stressed that while internal debates about the party's future direction were healthy and necessary, they should not interfere with the government's ongoing responsibilities to Quebec citizens.
The CAQ caucus, comprising 78 Members of the National Assembly, represents the governing majority in Quebec's legislature. Legault's insistence on normal operations reflects concerns about maintaining public confidence and policy continuity during what could be a potentially disruptive leadership contest.
As the CAQ prepares to select its next leader, Legault's final caucus appearance served as both a farewell to his political team and a directive to maintain focus on governing Quebec effectively through the transition period.
