Legault Faces Rejection as 80% of Quebec Voters Oppose His Re-election

UPDATE: Quebec Premier François Legault faces a significant political crisis as a new La Presse poll reveals that over 80% of voters do not want him to seek re-election in the upcoming 2026 provincial election. Only 16% of respondents believe Legault should pursue another mandate, indicating a dramatic decline in his popularity after seven years in power.

During a press conference on Wednesday, Legault vowed to continue fighting for the interests of Quebecers despite the alarming survey results. “I will continue to fight for Quebecers,” he asserted, underscoring his commitment to his role amid widespread discontent.

The poll indicates a troubling trend for the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), which is now trailing both the Parti Québécois and the Quebec Liberal Party in voter intentions. Officials from opposition parties have expressed that these numbers reflect a deeper frustration with the government as a whole. “The people have lost confidence in the whole government, not only in the premier,” stated Alex Boissonneault of the Parti Québécois, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Moreover, Guillaume Cliche-Rivard from Québec solidaire echoed these sentiments, stating, “Minister Legault is receiving what he deserves. He accumulated fiascos after fiascos.” This sentiment illustrates the mounting pressure on Legault from within the political landscape of Quebec.

Despite the negative polling, the survey also highlighted that a majority of Quebecers still support certain policies led by Legault, such as banning public prayer and prohibiting religious symbols in subsidized daycares. Analysts, however, suggest that the issue for the CAQ may lie more with its leader than its platform. “After seven years in power, the leader being so unpopular, there would usually be people within the party trying to push him out,” said Daniel Béland, director of the McGill Institute for the Study of Canada.

In a show of solidarity, senior cabinet ministers quickly reaffirmed their loyalty to Legault. “Mr. Legault has all my confidence and all the confidence of the caucus,” remarked Mathieu Lacombe, the Culture Minister. Lionel Carmant, the Social Services Minister, added, “We’re all behind him,” reinforcing the internal support despite the public discontent.

Opposition leader Pablo Rodriguez anticipates that Legault will complete his current mandate but cautioned him against making further mistakes. “The only thing I’m asking him: don’t make too many mistakes, please,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for strategic decision-making in the coming months.

Political analysts warn that if the CAQ’s poll numbers do not improve, it may lead to a situation where more of the party’s MNAs opt not to run again. Alarmingly, the poll found that none of Legault’s potential successors garnered more than 14% support among voters, raising questions about the party’s future leadership.

With the political landscape shifting dramatically, the implications of this poll could reshape the dynamics of Quebec’s governance. As Legault insists that it will ultimately be up to Quebecers to choose their premier, the coming months will be critical for the CAQ. The party must navigate these turbulent waters as it prepares for the challenge of the next election.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.