Environment Minister Bernard Drainville is set to surprise his colleague in the Economy Ministry, Christine Fréchette, with his upcoming leadership campaign launch on social media this Saturday, as revealed by insider sources.
Drainville has garnered support from key figures such as Samuel Poulin, the Economy Minister, and Kariane Bourassa, a Member of the National Assembly.
Starting his political journey with the Parti Québécois, Drainville previously held significant roles, including Minister of Democratic Institutions and Citizen Participation under Pauline Marois. After making a comeback in 2022, he secured a seat in the Lévis riding for the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), where he served as Minister of Education and later as Minister of the Environment.
Meanwhile, Fréchette is gearing up to kick off her campaign in Trois-Rivières on Sunday, aiming to succeed François Legault. She enjoys backing from various CAQ caucus members, including ministers Gilles Bélanger, Benoit Charette, Mathieu Lacombe, Kateri Champagne Jourdain, and Ian Lafrenière.
While Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette confirmed his decision not to join the leadership race, the race’s guidelines were disclosed on Thursday. Notably, both Drainville and Fréchette will need to temporarily step down from their ministerial roles to participate as candidates.
Prospective candidates must secure 1,000 signatures from CAQ members across 75 ridings, including endorsements from 15 MNAs and 100 youth wing members. Additionally, a non-refundable financial contribution of $30,000 is required, with election expenses capped at $150,000. The deadline for candidacy submissions is Feb. 21, and the new CAQ leader, and subsequently the next premier, will be determined on April 12.
