In a revealing personal account, former federal NDP leader Tom Mulcair details how Quebec Premier François Legault subtly signaled his impending departure in a handwritten Christmas note, a hint that became reality with Legault's resignation on January 13, 2026.
The Telling Holiday Greeting
A couple of years prior, Mulcair and a colleague had joked on air about not receiving seasonal cards from the premier, given their criticism of his Coalition Avenir Québec government. To their surprise, handwritten notes arrived, beginning a tradition. The 2025 card to Mulcair contained a telling phrase: "Cher Thomas, En 2026, je vais essayer de te faire mentir" ("Dear Thomas, In 2026, I will try to prove you wrong").
This was an inside joke, as Mulcair had been publicly predicting Legault's exit. However, one word stood out: "essayer" (to try). Mulcair questioned why the premier would need to "try" to stay on if he fully intended to remain for the next election. The answer came with Legault's official resignation announcement.
The Press Conference and Underlying Causes
Legault dedicated much of his career to public service, a fact Mulcair acknowledges. During his emotional press conference, Legault stated he recognized Quebecers desired change, including a new premier. His decision followed the damning publication of a report on incompetence and potential corruption at the SAAQ, Quebec's automobile insurance board, where hundreds of millions of dollars were reportedly misspent amid widespread government cuts.
Further strain came from the departures of key early CAQ allies, Health Minister Christian Dubé and Junior Health Minister Lionel Carmant. Legault, who once held the health portfolio himself, saw these exits as significant blows. His promise of a "government of accountants" contrasted with the reality of crumbling schools, a healthcare system in crisis, and a massive deficit.
Legacy and the Future of Quebec Politics
Mulcair credits Legault with a major achievement: shifting Quebec's political discourse away from the decades-long federalist vs. separatist debate. With Legault's exit and a resurgent Parti Québécois leading polls, some wonder if that old dynamic will return. However, polls indicate only about 35% of Quebecers support another referendum, leaving 65% of the vote split among the Liberals, CAQ, Québec solidaire, and the Conservative Party of Quebec.
Mulcair sees potential for the Quebec Liberal Party, soon to be led by Charles Milliard. He describes Milliard as a capable, Bourassa-style nationalist who could appeal to Québec solidaire voters on social issues and Conservative voters on the economy. The future of the CAQ, potentially under a figure like Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette, remains a key variable.
The new year has ushered in a significant opportunity for political realignment in Quebec, sparked by a premier's decision that was, perhaps, whispered in a holiday greeting.
