According to a recent poll conducted by La Presse, a majority of Quebecers believe that Premier François Legault should not seek a third term before the next provincial election. The survey revealed that 74% of respondents feel that Legault should step down either before the 2026 election or after completing his current mandate. Interestingly, only 16% of those surveyed support Legault running again in 2026.
In particular, individuals between the ages of 25 and 34 are the most critical of Legault, with nearly 80% expressing the opinion that he should resign either immediately or at the end of his current mandate. Despite the criticism, Legault remains resolute in defending Quebec’s values, stating that the decision ultimately lies with the voters in October 2026.
The poll also reflected dissatisfaction with Legault’s personal performance, as 60% of respondents expressed discontent, while only 15% were satisfied. Similarly, 57% of those surveyed were unsatisfied with Legault’s party, Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), while 13% approved of their performance.
Regarding potential replacements for Legault, Sonia Lebel and Simon Jolin-Barette garnered 14% support each, followed by Christian Dubé and Geneviève Guilbault at 10%. However, a significant portion of respondents (36%) indicated that they were unsure about who should succeed Legault.
In terms of preferred candidates for the position of Premier, Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon emerged as the top choice with 25% support, followed by Legault at 14% and Quebec Liberal leader Pablo Rodrigez at 12%.
In response to the poll results, PQ spokesperson Joël Arseneau highlighted concerns about unfulfilled campaign promises and cuts to essential services, attributing the backlash to what he described as a lack of service delivery and economic challenges.
The survey, conducted online from October 8 to 12, 2025, included 1,058 Quebec adults registered with SOM’s internet panel. The results were weighted to ensure representation across key sociodemographic characteristics, with a maximum margin of error of ±3.5%.
