CAQ Power Struggle: Jolin-Barrette Weighs His Move as a Three-Way Race Emerges
A political succession battle is quietly but firmly taking shape in Quebec and at the center of it is Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette, now openly weighing whether he will step into the race to lead the Coalition avenir Québec and eventually become premier.
With François Legault preparing to hand over the reins, the CAQ is entering one of the most delicate moments in its history. What was once a tightly controlled governing party is now navigating uncertainty, ambition and competing visions for Quebec’s future. And today, that contest is clearly shaping into a three-way dynamic.
Simon Jolin-Barrette represents the nationalist backbone of the party. He is closely associated with the CAQ’s identity-driven agenda, especially on language, culture and Quebec autonomy. In recent remarks, he has framed the party’s mission as a balance, a strong economy that protects household finances, paired with a confident and unapologetic defense of Quebec’s identity. For supporters, Jolin-Barrette embodies continuity. For critics, he represents a harder edge that may or may not resonate with a broader electorate.
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At the same time, momentum is building behind Economy Minister Christine Fréchette. She has not officially declared her candidacy, but her support inside the caucus is growing fast. Several ministers and deputies have already lined up behind her, signaling that many within the party see economic leadership as the key issue heading into the next election. With Quebec facing inflation pressures, budget constraints and global instability, Fréchette’s message is clear. Stability, growth and credibility with voters worried about their wallets.
Then there is Bernard Drainville, another nationalist figure, positioning himself as a connector. He speaks about emotion, experience and reconnecting with ordinary Quebecers, particularly in the regions. His early support is smaller, but highly symbolic and his long political history gives him name recognition and a loyal base.
Notably absent from the race is Finance Minister Eric Girard, who has stepped aside but left a clear message behind. He wants the next leader to champion a more inclusive and unifying nationalism, a signal that internal debates about tone and direction are far from settled.
This matters far beyond party politics. The CAQ has governed Quebec for years, reshaping its political landscape with what it calls a third way, nationalist but not sovereignist, pragmatic but assertive. Who leads next will determine whether that formula evolves, hardens, or fractures.
The rules of the leadership race are about to be unveiled and once they are, decisions will become unavoidable. Simon Jolin-Barrette cannot reflect forever. When he chooses, it will set the tone for a contest that could redefine Quebec politics.
Stay with us as this leadership battle unfolds, because the choices made here will echo far beyond the walls of the National Assembly.
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