Legault's identity politics may have fallen short

François Legault announced he will step down as leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec after polling showed the party at about 10 per cent, and critics say his emphasis on identity-related laws diverted attention from health, education and economic issues.

François Legault announced he will step down as leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) and said many Quebecers want change, though he will remain until his party selects a replacement. Over two terms, his government advanced several identity-focused laws while facing criticism that other priorities—housing, health care and education—were not fully addressed. Polling in early January placed the CAQ and Legault at around 10 per cent in voter intentions. The political landscape now includes a rising Parti Québécois in polls and a Quebec Liberal Party that remains competitive despite its own leadership race. Key facts: - Legault formally announced his decision to step down as CAQ leader and said voters want change; he said he will stay on until a successor is chosen. - A Pallas Data poll of more than 1,100 Quebecers between Jan. 9 and 10 placed the premier and his party at about 10 per cent in voter intentions. - The government passed or tabled several laws tied to identity issues, including Bill 96, the secularism law known as Bill 21 (challenges to be heard by the Supreme Court of Canada on March 23), and Bill 9, which restricts prayer spaces in some public settings and expands face-uncovering rules in education settings. - Critics such as the National Council of Canadian Muslims say those laws have harmed cultural and linguistic minorities; Legault had also disputed the existence of systemic racism despite a coroner's recommendation after the death of Joyce Echaquan. - Quebec faces notable public service and fiscal challenges cited during Legault's tenure: reported shortages of 898 teachers, 1,135 support staff and 449 professionals in education; the government lost a $270-million investment after Northvolt’s parent company filed for bankruptcy; the province is reported to face a $12.4-billion deficit for 2025–26; and a digital project for the automobile insurance board had a reported $500-million cost overrun. Summary: The resignation shifts Quebec politics at a moment when identity legislation and concerns about public services were central to debate. Legault has said he will remain in place until his party names a successor, and the Supreme Court will hear challenges to the secularism law on March 23; broader outcomes for party standings and policy focus remain to be determined.