Christine Fréchette to launch campaign on Sunday to succeed Legault as CAQ leader

By Canadian Press on January 23, 2026.

QUÉBEC — Economy Minister Christine Fréchette will officially enter the race to succeed François Legault as Quebec premier and Coalition Avenir Québec leader on Sunday.

A source close to Fréchette who was not authorized to speak publicly confirmed the news to The Canadian Press.

Fréchette has already received the support of several caucus members and five cabinet ministers and will make her entry official with an announcement in Trois-Rivières, Que.

Facing dismal polling, Legault said last week he would step down as party leader and premier after a successor is named.

The CAQ released its leadership race rules on Thursday, which require Fréchette to temporarily step down from her cabinet minister duties to run, with the race ending on April 12.

Other cabinet ministers weighing a leadership run include Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette and Environment Minister Bernard Drainville.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 23, 2026.

Thomas Laberge, The Canadian Press