A fresh public opinion survey reveals that Christine Fréchette continues to dominate Bernard Drainville in the contest to lead the Coalition Avenir Québec and become Quebec's next premier. The poll, conducted by Pallas Data in collaboration with L'Actualité on February 21-22, provides compelling evidence of Fréchette's strong position among party members and the broader electorate.
Substantial Lead Among CAQ Members
The survey indicates that 51 percent of CAQ members hold a favourable opinion of Fréchette, while only 24 percent express similar sentiments about Drainville. This disparity becomes even more pronounced when examining unfavourable opinions, with 55 percent of CAQ members reporting "very or rather" unfavourable views of Drainville compared to just 24 percent for Fréchette.
Clear Preference for Premier
When asked which candidate would make the best premier, 57 percent of CAQ members selected Fréchette, while only 29 percent chose Drainville. This preference extends beyond party lines to the general population, where 47 percent of Quebecers believe Fréchette would be the superior premier compared to just 17 percent for Drainville, giving Fréchette a commanding 30 percentage point advantage.
Broad Demographic Support
Friguette's appeal appears remarkably consistent across demographic categories. She leads in every subgroup analyzed by pollsters, including men, women, francophones, and non-francophones. This widespread support suggests her candidacy resonates with diverse segments of Quebec society.
Comparative Popularity Rankings
The poll also placed the leadership candidates within the broader context of Quebec political figures. Drainville ranks near the bottom of the popularity scale, positioned just above outgoing Premier François Legault, who occupies the last spot. Interestingly, Quebec Conservative leader Éric Duhaime polls higher than Drainville in these rankings.
Friguette herself occupies the second position on this list, trailing only newly acclaimed Liberal leader Charles Milliard. This positioning indicates her strong standing not just within her own party but across the provincial political landscape.
Upcoming Leadership Events
The poll results emerge as Fréchette and Drainville prepare for their first virtual debate this Saturday, organized by the CAQ youth wing. The one-hour discussion will focus on three key themes: youth quality of life, identity and future considerations, and CAQ unity.
Two additional debates have been scheduled for March 21 in Quebec City and March 28 in Laval. These events will provide further opportunities for the candidates to distinguish themselves before CAQ members select their new leader on April 12, who will automatically become Quebec's next premier following Legault's announced departure in January.
Demonstration of Strength
Friguette recently demonstrated her organizational capabilities and popular appeal by drawing nearly 400 supporters to a rally in Boucherville last Saturday. This show of strength complements the poll findings and suggests momentum building behind her candidacy.
Poll Methodology
The survey was based on a sample of 1,075 Quebec adults, including 152 who identified as likely CAQ voters. The margin of error for the overall sample is plus or minus three percentage points, 19 times out of 20, providing statistically significant results that underscore Fréchette's substantial lead in the leadership race.
