Outgoing Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette pushed off 'glass cliff' in election
A University of Calgary political scientist says women face steeper odds in leadership races when parties are already in crisis, citing 57 women elected to Quebec’s assembly.
- On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, outgoing Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette announced her resignation after the Coalition Avenir Québec failed to win any seats in Monday's general election.
- The 'glass cliff' concept, where women assume leadership during crises, characterizes Fréchette's tenure after she replaced former Premier François Legault in April following his popularity collapse.
- Marketing expert Thierry Giasson noted Fréchette hoped for a "Mark Carney moment" but ultimately experienced a "Kim Campbell moment," paying the price for the party's pre-existing political baggage.
- University of Calgary professor Melanee Thomas argues the situation reflects a "gendered political opportunity structure," suggesting women often accept leadership roles when parties are struggling because fewer men compete.
- During her resignation speech, Fréchette denounced limited political opportunities for women, noting "Quebec was led by women for a total of 25 months in 159 years" and hoping to open doors.
25 Articles
25 Articles
Outgoing Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette pushed off a 'glass cliff' in election
When former Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne watched the results of Quebec’s election come in, she says she couldn’t help but draw parallels between herself and Christine Fréchette.
Outgoing Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette pushed off ‘glass cliff’ in election
MONTREAL - When former Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne watched the results of Quebec’s election come in, she says she couldn’t help but draw parallels between herself and Christine Fréchette.
Outgoing Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette pushed off 'glass cliff' in election
MONTREAL - When former Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne watched the results of Quebec’s election come in, she says she couldn’t help but draw parallels between herself and Christine Fréchette.
Did Christine Frechette face a ‘glass cliff’? Expert points to broader political pattern
Research suggests women are more likely to lead political parties during times of crisis, while facing higher expectations and greater scrutiny than men.
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