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Simon Jolin-Barrette bows out of CAQ leadership race; Christine Fréchette to run

On Jan. 23, 2026, Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette said he won’t seek the Coalition Avenir Québec leadership, while Economy Minister Christine Fréchette is expected to announce her candidacy Sunday in Trois‑Rivières, Quebec.
Facing dismal polling, François Legault said last week he would step down after a successor is chosen at the April 12, 2026 leadership convention.
His political record includes roles as immigration and justice minister, sponsoring Bill 21 and Bill 96, but Jolin-Barrette says he declined the race for family and professional reasons.
The CAQ launched its race on Jan. 22 with strict entry rules requiring endorsements from at least 75 ridings and support from 15 legislature members and 100 youth wing members, while François Bonnardel announced on Jan. 23 he will not run.
The contest marks the CAQ’s first leadership race, and a source close to Fréchette confirmed to The Canadian Press her entry to the CAQ’s first leadership contest.

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36 Articles

La Presse

Lean Left

Race for Two at the Caq

“If Fréchette wins, I resign! ”

20 hours ago·Montreal, Canada

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Global News

Lean Left

Simon Jolin-Barrette bows out of CAQ leadership race; Christine Fréchette to run - Montreal

Economy Minister Christine Fréchette has scheduled an event on Sunday in Trois-Rivières, Que., where she is expected to announce she is officially entering the race.

1 day ago·Toronto, Canada

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The Lethbridge Herald

+16 Reposted by 16 other sources

Lean Left

Simon Jolin-Barrette bows out of CAQ leadership race; Christine Fréchette to run

QUÉBEC — Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette says he won't seek the Coalition Avenir Québec leadership to replace François Legault. Jolin-Barrette says

1 day ago

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CTV News

Center

Simon Jolin Barrette, Bonnardel not seeking CAQ leadership

Two more Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) MNAs decided not to run for the leadership race to replace François Legault as leader of the party and Quebec premier.

1 day ago·Canada

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