The Quebec Liberal Party has turned to a familiar and experienced figure to guide it through a period of turmoil, appointing Marc Tanguay as its interim leader for the second time. This move follows the sudden resignation of leader Pablo Rodriguez, who stepped down amid allegations of illegal fundraising activities within his leadership campaign.
A Steady Hand in a Crisis
The decision was solidified by the party's 18-member caucus during a virtual meeting held on Friday, December 19, 2025. In an official statement, the Liberals highlighted Tanguay's qualifications, noting his deep knowledge of the party and 14 years of parliamentary experience as the Member of the National Assembly for LaFontaine.
"I thank my colleagues in caucus and the executive committee of the party for their renewed confidence," Tanguay stated. "More than ever, our party, our great party, must regain its capacity for action and to incarnate progress."
Familiar Territory for Tanguay
This is not Marc Tanguay's first stint at the helm during a leadership vacuum. He previously served as interim leader for two years and seven months after the resignation of former leader Dominique Anglade in November 2022. Although he considered running for the permanent leadership position in the most recent race, he ultimately chose not to enter the contest.
The circumstances of his return are marked by scandal. Rodriguez's resignation caps a month-long crisis triggered by reports of unethical fundraising. The controversy centers on allegations that Montreal businessman Emmanuel Carbal, a wine and port producer and importer, provided $500 cheques to employees to reimburse them for donations made to the Rodriguez campaign.
This practice is illegal under Quebec's electoral laws, and the province's anti-corruption unit, UPAC, has launched an investigation into the matter.
The Path Forward for the Liberals
Rodriguez's departure forces the Quebec Liberal Party to once again embark on a search for a permanent leader, with the next provincial general election scheduled for October 2026. The party's executive council is set to meet in the coming days to determine the process for selecting a new leader.
While the party has mechanisms to fast-track a leader, it is widely expected to hold a short leadership race with the goal of installing a new chief by February. Potential candidates from the previous race are already weighing their options. Charles Milliard, who finished second to Rodriguez in June, is reportedly in reflection about running again. The third-place finisher, Karl Blackburn, has also expressed interest. Both are awaiting the final campaign rules before making a definitive decision.
However, some notable figures have already ruled themselves out. Marwah Rizqy, the MNA for St-Laurent, and current Liberal parliamentary leader André Fortin have both stated they will not seek the leadership.
The party now looks to Marc Tanguay's steadying influence to maintain stability and unity as it navigates this latest scandal and prepares to choose a leader who can rebuild public trust ahead of the critical 2026 vote.
