Bernard Drainville, a candidate in the CAQ leadership race aiming to succeed François Legault, is pushing for more debates as he trails behind his opponent Christine Fréchette. Despite Fréchette rejecting his demand for additional debates, Drainville emphasized the need for voters to understand their ideas before the March 13 membership deadline.
During a press gathering at the National Assembly, Drainville stressed the importance of engaging in more debates, stating, “It really takes more than two debates. People need to know what our ideas are to encourage them to take out their cards.” He urged Fréchette to agree to further debates before the deadline, highlighting that television networks are prepared to host these discussions.
The CAQ currently has two debates scheduled on March 21 in Quebec City and March 28 in Laval, with the party indicating no plans for additional debates. However, candidates are free to arrange debates with broadcasters such as Radio-Canada and TVA. Drainville believes these debates would serve as valuable preparation for the upcoming election campaign.
In terms of support within the CAQ caucus, Fréchette leads with 26 supporters, including 12 ministers, while Drainville lags behind with only nine MNAs, including one minister. Recent polls indicate Fréchette’s popularity is significantly higher than Drainville’s, with projections suggesting a CAQ led by Fréchette could challenge the Parti Québécois in voting intentions.
The next CAQ leader will be elected at a convention on April 12, underscoring the significance of the ongoing leadership race.
