Quebecers will find out Sunday who will become their next premier after the Coalition Avenir Québec counts the votes in a race to replace the only leader the party has ever had.
After outgoing Premier François Legault announced in January that he was stepping down, former economy ministers Christine Fréchette and Bernard Drainville entered the race. About 20,500 CAQ members were eligible to vote and select the new leader. Fréchette focused her campaign on economic issues while also stating that she was open to allowing more permanent residents in Quebec. Drainville positioned himself as the candidate most qualified to uphold Quebec’s identity and implement a more stringent immigration policy while relying on conservative ideas. The winner will have their work cut out for them as the latest public opinion polls show the governing party trailing far behind the Parti Québécois and Quebec Liberals.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 12, 2026.
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