Premier François Legault and his party, the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ), are facing significant challenges as they head towards the upcoming general election. With the CAQ slipping to third place in the polls behind the Parti Québécois (PQ) and the Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ), and having lost six MNAs, including former Health Minister Christian Dubé, the pressure is mounting on Legault.
The declining popularity of Legault himself is a major concern, with 75% of Quebecers expressing an unfavorable opinion of the CAQ leader. This dissatisfaction has led to speculations about potential successors within the party, as the support for the CAQ has dipped from 21% in January to 18% in December.
The challenges faced by Legault extend beyond public opinion, with financial setbacks such as the record deficit announced earlier in the year and the downgrade of Quebec’s credit rating by Standard & Poor’s. The mismanagement accusations and controversies surrounding projects like the Québec-Lévis road link have further complicated the situation for Legault and his government.
The SAAQclic fiasco and the explosive report revealing IT problems at the SAAQ added to Legault’s troubles, leading to dismissals and inquiries within the government. The aftermath of Bill 2, which caused a rift within the CAQ as ministers left the party, also tested Legault’s leadership.
Despite these challenges, Legault remains determined to lead the CAQ into the 2026 elections, amidst rumors of potential successors within the party. Names like Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette, Education Minister Sonia LeBel, and others are being floated as potential candidates to succeed Legault.
As the political landscape in Quebec undergoes significant shifts, the question remains whether Legault can retain his position and lead the CAQ to success in the upcoming election.
