In a significant political development, François Legault announced his resignation as Premier of Quebec and leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) on January 14, 2025. The veteran politician explained his decision to step down in an extensive, 13,000-word message published directly to his social media channels.
A Decision for the "Good of Quebec"
Legault stated that his resignation was motivated by a clear sense that many Quebecers desired a change in leadership. He expressed hope that the next provincial election would focus on Quebec's major challenges rather than simply a desire for change. "For the good of my party and, above all, for the good of Quebec, I announce today that I will be stepping down from my position as Premier of Quebec," he wrote. He confirmed he would remain in office for a transitional period of a few months while his party selects a successor.
Reflecting on Legacy and Key Achievements
In his lengthy farewell, Legault outlined what he viewed as the principal accomplishments of his two majority mandates. He expressed particular pride in the CAQ's rapid rise to power, forming a government just seven years after the party's founding.
He dedicated a substantial portion of his message to the government's economic record, claiming that under his leadership, Quebec's per-capita economic growth and average salary growth outpaced the rest of Canada—a trend he noted had not been seen in a long time. He credited an aggressive business investment attraction strategy and major Hydro-Québec projects for this performance.
Legault also highlighted significant budget increases in core sectors, noting a 57% rise in health spending, a 58% increase in education, and a 61% boost for culture over seven years. Specific milestones he cited included hiring and training 10,000 orderlies during the pandemic, reforming family doctor compensation, and the upcoming opening of the National History Museum of Quebec.
Defending Identity and Acknowledging Challenges
The outgoing premier strongly defended his government's stance on Quebec's national identity. He pointed to the adoption of Bill 21 on state secularism and Bill 96 to strengthen the French Language Charter as landmark achievements. However, he voiced concern about the "worrying decline of the French language," particularly in Montreal, linking it to a surge in temporary immigrants and asylum seekers under federal programs.
Legault acknowledged the challenges faced by Quebecers, including the rising cost of living for housing and groceries. He also mentioned the failure to finalize the Gull Island hydroelectric project with Newfoundland after a change in government there.
Throughout the message, Legault extended heartfelt thanks to his family, political associates like Martin Koskinen, his spouse Isabelle, his CAQ colleagues, and the voters of L'Assomption. He described the CAQ team as a "family" and called serving as premier "the greatest honour of my life." His resignation marks the end of a consequential chapter in Quebec politics, setting the stage for a leadership race and a new political dynamic in the province.
