January 14, 2026
RED FM News Desk
Quebec Premier François Legault announced Tuesday that he is stepping down, setting off a leadership race within the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) just months before the province’s fall election.
Speaking to reporters in Quebec City, Legault said he will remain in office until the party selects a new leader.
“I can clearly see that Quebecers want change right now, including a change of premier,” Legault said. “For the good of my party, and especially for the good of Quebec, I am announcing today that I will leave my position as Quebec premier.”
Legault’s decisive victory in the 2018 provincial election ushered in a new era in Quebec politics, ending nearly five decades of alternating Liberal and Parti Québécois governments.
The 68-year-old former co-founder of Air Transat went on to secure a second consecutive majority in 2022. His success was driven by strong support among francophone voters, a divided opposition, and heightened public visibility during the COVID-19 pandemic.
His departure now leaves the CAQ facing an uncertain transition as it prepares for an election later this year.
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