In a significant development for Quebec's political landscape, Education Minister Sonia LeBel has declared she will not seek re-election and plans to leave public life at the end of her current term. Her announcement, made on Monday, January 19, 2026, comes just over a day after Deputy Premier Geneviève Guilbault revealed similar plans, marking a period of transition for the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government.
A Decision for Personal Renewal
LeBel communicated her decision through a detailed post on the social media platform X. She emphasized that her choice was not a sudden departure but a thoughtful conclusion to her chapter in politics. "I was always motivated by one thing: to serve the public interest with integrity," LeBel stated. She framed her exit not as "slamming the door" but as "turning the page with gratitude and enthusiasm for what's next." The minister indicated that her choice followed careful deliberation and consultations with family, friends, and colleagues.
Her announcement adds to the wave of senior ministers stepping back, following Premier François Legault's own revelation last week that he will depart once a successor is chosen. LeBel characterized Legault's decision as "courageous" and one that could help the government navigate recent challenges.
Premier's Praise and Leadership Speculation
Premier François Legault was swift to publicly acknowledge LeBel's contribution to his government. On X, he praised her as a guardian of the government's ethics from the very beginning of her political career. "She exercised her functions with rigour and integrity," Legault wrote, also noting her human qualities as a nature-loving and deeply relatable person. He stated he respects her decision and thanked her for her service.
The minister also confirmed she had been approached to consider a run for the CAQ leadership to replace Legault. However, after reflection, she concluded that a withdrawal from public life was the right path for her. This leaves the field open for other potential candidates within the CAQ cabinet, who are now under increased scrutiny regarding their leadership ambitions. International Relations Minister Christopher Skeete has already stated he will not seek the party's top job.
Implications for the CAQ's Future
The consecutive departures of two high-profile ministers, Guilbault and LeBel, signal a major reshaping of the CAQ's front bench as the party prepares for a future without its founding leader, François Legault. Geneviève Guilbault cited a desire to spend more time with her family as her reason for leaving.
LeBel, who has held key portfolios including President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Education, is the latest in a growing list of CAQ cabinet members who have decided not to run again. This series of exits presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the governing party as it seeks to renew its team and articulate a vision for the next election under new leadership.
The coming months are likely to focus intensely on who will step forward to lead the CAQ and how the party will manage this significant generational and leadership shift while maintaining stability in the Quebec government.
