The race for leadership within the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) is officially underway, with both candidates touring Quebec to connect with the public. On Friday, Christine Fréchette visited the Lanaudière region to engage with the community.
A visit to a senior living facility, followed by discussions with activists, farmers, entrepreneurs, and local citizens, allowed the candidate to gauge the sentiments of the residents in the Joliette and Rousseau constituencies.
Leadership Race Begins
“The essence of this electoral campaign is to connect with the people. For me, that is essential,” stated the politician during an interview with Sylvain Morin on O 103.5.
Christine Fréchette in an interview with Sylvain Morin on the airwaves of O103.5
While Bernard Drainville stated he is “working for the real world,” Christine Fréchette claims she is “working for everyone.”
Community Engagement Tour
Positive aspects in the assessment of the CAQ
While there is often talk about the negative actions of the Legault government, Christine Fréchette emphasizes that the CAQ has also made progress on various issues, particularly in the areas of the economy and education.
“The scale of the investments made in education is remarkable. We have rebuilt, constructed, and renovated a significant number of schools,” she stated.
Candidate’s Campaign Focus
Nonetheless, Christine Fréchette believes there is still work to be done, particularly regarding the infrastructure.
Christine Fréchette in an interview with Sylvain Morin on the airwaves of O103.5
Another suggestion for a third connection
Local Sentiments Addressed
The third link in Quebec has been a topic of significant interest for many years. While her opponent plans to continue with the route chosen by the Legault government, Christine Fréchette believes that the path should be reconsidered.
Christine Fréchette and François St-Louis visited the O103.5 studio // Photo by Jessica Potsou, Arsenal Media
The candidate for the leadership position suggests a third option in the eastern part of the national capital, which will primarily be funded by private sources to free up resources for other significant issues in the province.
“Taxpayers can no longer afford to inject 11 billion dollars or more,” she explained, noting that it would involve a toll bridge.
A grandfather clause for the PEQ
The announcement regarding the conclusion of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) has generated significant responses in recent months, whether from immigrant workers or employers.
In response to the widespread public outcry, Christine Fréchette plans to implement a clause ensuring acquired rights for workers who were in Quebec last November.
Christine Fréchette interviewed by Sylvain Morin on the airwaves of O103.5
A race for leadership within a “large family”
For Christine Fréchette, nothing should be taken for granted in this leadership race. Although recent polls indicate she has a lead over her opponent, particularly in public opinion, the candidate emphasizes that it will be the CAQ’s active members who will ultimately decide who will lead the party.
“One must not take anything for granted, as we have seen other campaigns where the polls were in favor, but ultimately what truly matters is the number of coalition members who will voice their support for me,” emphasized the individual who aims to become the premier of Quebec.
Regardless of the outcome of this race, Christine Fréchette plans to continue her work within the party.
“I remain within the party [in the event of a loss], and if Bernard [Drainville] wishes to assign me responsibilities, that’s his choice. For me, we are still one big family, and we will work together harmoniously,” stated Ms. Fréchette.
The full interview of Christine Fréchette with Sylvain Morin will be aired on Monday morning between 8:30 and 9:00 during the show Les 100 000 matins.
