Christine Fréchette becomes quebec’s new premier after leadership victory

Monday 13 April 2026 - 09:45

Christine Fréchette has been elected as the new leader of Quebec’s governing Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), marking a major political transition in the province.

She won the leadership vote in Drummondville with 57.9% of the support, defeating former minister Bernard Drainville. The result makes her the 33rd premier of Quebec and only the second woman ever to hold the position.

In her victory speech, Fréchette thanked party members for their trust and emphasized a new direction for the province. She described her leadership as representing a “new generation” focused on efficiency and economic stability.

Fréchette, previously Quebec’s economy minister, campaigned on strengthening the province’s economic performance and revisiting key energy and resource debates, including discussions around natural gas development. She also highlighted the importance of addressing global economic uncertainty and its impact on Quebec households.

The leadership change follows the departure of longtime CAQ leader François Legault, who founded the party in 2011 and led it through multiple majority governments before announcing his resignation amid declining popularity.

Fréchette’s election has been met with cautious reactions from opposition parties, who congratulated her while signaling continued political debate ahead. Liberal leader Charles Milliard praised both candidates and acknowledged Legault’s years of public service.

The transition marks a new chapter for Quebec politics as the province faces economic pressures and evolving public expectations.