Quebecers Turn Away from Legault According to SOM-La Presse Survey Analysis in Dossier

Recent survey findings from SOM reveal significant dissatisfaction among Quebecers regarding Premier François Legault’s leadership. A substantial 74% of respondents believe Legault should step down before the upcoming general elections in October 2026. Despite his insistence on seeking a third term, only 16% of the population supports his re-election.

Survey Insights

The SOM survey, conducted for Emegypt, indicates a clear divide in public opinion about Legault’s political future. Among those surveyed:

• 31% believe he should resign before completing his current term.
• 43% think he should finish his term but then retire from politics.
• Only 16% support his bid for re-election in 2026.

This represents a stark decline in public support compared to a December 2024 survey, where 53% favored early resignation, and 33% wanted him to seek another term.

Demographic Breakdown

The survey results demonstrate varying levels of support across different demographic groups:

• Only 13% of women believe he should run again, compared to 19% of men.
• Among those aged 25-34, nearly 80% advocate for his resignation or retirement.
• Only 21% of respondents aged 65 and over support his re-election.

These statistics depict a growing trend of dissatisfaction towards Legault’s administration.

Public Sentiment and Challenges Ahead

The general sentiment towards Legault’s performance is overwhelmingly negative. Approximately 60% of Quebecers feel either “totally dissatisfied” (31%) or “dissatisfied” (29%) with his leadership. Just 15% express satisfaction.

The current political landscape indicates a challenging road ahead for Legault, with widespread discontent across various age groups and socio-economic backgrounds. Enhanced scrutiny from voters appears to be forming an uphill battle for his administration’s agenda.

Leadership Succession Concerns

As calls for a leadership change grow, potential successors are yet to emerge as clear favorites. Among candidates considered to replace Legault, Sonia LeBel and Simon Jolin-Barrette lead with 14% support each, followed by Geneviève Guilbault and Christian Dubé at 10% each.

• 36% of Quebecers remain undecided on a potential successor.
• Only 6% support Bernard Drainville, while Christine Fréchette has 5% backing.

This lack of a prominent successor raises questions about the future of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) party and its direction moving forward.

Comparative Analysis with Previous Leadership

Historically, fellow politicians like Jean Charest faced similar calls for resignation in times of unpopularity. In 2010, 57% of Quebecers wished for Charest’s resignation amidst low approval ratings. Current sentiments for Legault reflect an equally challenging political atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

With a considerable portion of the electorate dissatisfied, it appears the political landscape in Quebec may shift significantly leading up to the 2026 elections. As the opposition gains traction, the future of François Legault’s political career remains uncertain. Observers conclude that swift changes in public sentiment could alter the course of his administration.