Members of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) are beginning to cast their votes for the party's next leader, a decision that will determine the province's next premier. The leadership race was triggered by the unexpected resignation of François Legault, who cited personal reasons and a desire for renewal within the party.
Several candidates have emerged as frontrunners, each promising a fresh vision for Quebec's future. Among them are current cabinet ministers Geneviève Guilbault and Eric Caire, as well as younger, less-known MNAs who are hoping to shake up the party establishment. The candidates have been campaigning across the province, holding town halls and policy discussions to win over the support of CAQ members. Key issues in the leadership race include the economy, healthcare, education, and the environment, all of which are top concerns for Quebecers.
The leadership vote is being conducted online and by mail-in ballot, with results expected to be announced later this week. The new leader will face the immediate challenge of uniting the party and preparing for the next provincial election, which is slated for 2026. The CAQ currently holds a majority in the National Assembly, but recent polling suggests that support for the party has been declining.
The outcome of the CAQ leadership race will have significant implications for the future of Quebec. The new leader will not only set the direction of the province's government but will also play a key role in shaping the political landscape for years to come. As Quebecers watch closely, the CAQ is poised to enter a new chapter in its history.
