Quebec politicians and leaders react to Fréchette’s victory, warn of ‘enormous challenges’
Posted April 12, 2026 6:12 pm.
Last Updated April 13, 2026 5:12 pm.
Christine Fréchette was elected leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec on Sunday, and in doing so, became premier-elect of Quebec.
Here is some reaction to the choice of François Legault’s successor, and Quebec’s second female premier.
Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada
“I congratulate the new Premier of Quebec, @CFrechette, on her victory as leader of the CAQ. I look forward to meeting with her to advance the priorities of Montrealers. Montreal, Quebec’s metropolis, will always be ready to work closely with the government to improve the quality of life of its citizens.”
Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer
“Congratulations to Christine Fréchette! I offer her my full cooperation. I look forward to discussing with her the issues affecting the people of Laval. Quebec is facing major challenges, and cities can be allies in finding solutions.”
Quebec City Mayor Bruno Marchand
“Quebec faces enormous challenges, as you know. We must quickly regain our agility, our ingenuity, and our boldness. We must embrace the future. We need unifying leadership, and Ms. Fréchette, you have all the talent to deliver. I urge you, Madam premier, to rely on mayors whenever possible. It is together that we will achieve the best results, for the benefit of all citizens.”
Mélanie Joly, federal minister of industry and minister responsible for CED for the regions of Quebec
“Congratulations to Christine Fréchette, with whom I collaborated extensively during her time at the MEIE. We will continue to develop Québec’s economic potential and create jobs for Quebecers. Our second woman Premier in Québec. Bravo!”
Prime Minister Mark Carney
“Congratulations @cfrechette on your election as leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec. I look forward to working together in partnership to create more economic opportunity and prosperity for all Québecers.”
Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet
“On behalf of the Bloc Québécois, I extend our congratulations to Christine Fréchette, the new and second Premier of Quebec. The Premier can count on the Bloc Québécois’ voice to represent the consensus of the National Assembly of Quebec within and before the Parliament of Canada.”
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre
“Félicitations à @CFrechette, qui deviendra la nouvelle première ministre du Québec. Je suis prêt à collaborer avec vous sur des solutions pour remettre plus d’argent dans le portefeuille des familles québécoises.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford
“Congratulations to Quebec’s next premier, Christine Fréchette. I look forward to working together to protect Canadian workers, families and communities. I also want to thank Premier Legault for his years of partnership, friendship and public service and wish him all the best for the future.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith
“Congratulations to Christine Fréchette @CFrechette on becoming leader of the CAQ and the next premier of Quebec. I look forward to working together to strengthen our provinces and build a stronger Canada. I also want to thank Premier François Legault @francoislegault for his years of dedicated service and our collaboration. Wishing him all the best.”
Caroline Senneville, president of the Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN)
“Good luck to Christine Fréchette. … If Ms. Fréchette wants to revitalize the system with projects for a Quebec that stands tall — a healthy economy designed for the common good, strong public services, a genuine social safety net, and respect for workers — she only has to call 1-800-CSN. We will be there.”
Éric Gingras, president of the Centrale des syndicats du Québec (CSQ)
“Congratulations to Ms. Fréchette on her election. The challenges ahead are numerous, and it is high time to move beyond short-sighted governance driven by primarily ideological legislative projects. … Today, we call for a change of tone and a return to working through dialogue, in the common interest. Quebec deserves better.”
