CAQ Elects New Leader and Quebec Premier on April 12
The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) will select its new leader and premier on April 12, 2026. This leadership election follows a preferential voting system. Candidates currently serving as ministers must pause their official duties to compete.
Leadership Race Announcement
On March 1, 2026, CAQ announced the guidelines for the leadership race to replace its founder, François Legault. Current ministers Christine Fréchette (Economy and Energy), Bernard Drainville (Environment), and Simon Jolin-Barrette (Justice) are considering entering the competition. If they choose to run, they must temporarily step down from their ministerial roles.
Key Dates and Requirements
The nomination period opens at midnight and will close on February 21, 2026. To qualify, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Pay a fee of $30,000 to the CAQ.
- Collect 1,000 signatures from party members across 75 constituencies.
- Secure signatures from at least 15 current caucus members.
- Obtain signatures from 100 members of the youth commission.
Debates and Voting Process
The leadership race will include two national debates: one in eastern Quebec and the other in the west. The winner will be announced at the leadership convention on April 12, 2026. The preferential voting method allows voters to rank candidates by preference. A candidate must achieve an absolute majority (over 50% of votes plus one) to win the election.
This leadership election marks a significant transition for the CAQ as it prepares for a new chapter under fresh leadership.
