Businessman Olivier Primeau Rules Out CAQ Leadership Bid as Party Seeks Legault Successor
QUEBEC CITY, January 17, 2026 – The race to succeed François Legault as leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) and Premier of the province is intensifying, with political circles abuzz over potential candidates from outside the traditional political class. While analyst Mario Dumont suggested businessman and influencer Olivier Primeau would be a “game changer,” Primeau himself has definitively stated he will not enter the contest, aiming to quash the growing speculation about his political ambitions.
Legault’s Departure Triggers Succession Crisis
Premier François Legault announced his pending resignation on January 14, 2026, acknowledging that a majority of Quebecers desired a change in leadership. His party, which won decisive majorities in 2018 and 2022, has seen its support collapse in polls, now sitting in third or fourth place behind the Parti Québécois, Liberals, and Conservatives. The CAQ has suffered a series of by-election defeats and high-profile ministerial resignations over the past year, culminating in Legault’s decision to step aside before the October 2026 general election. He will remain as premier until a new party leader is chosen.
The Search for a New Standard-Bearer
With the CAQ facing an existential threat, the question of who can revitalize the party dominates political discourse. Names from within the CAQ caucus, such as former minister Simon Jolin-Barrette and Municipal Affairs Minister Geneviève Guilbault, are frequently mentioned. However, the prospect of a candidate from the business world has generated significant discussion, reflecting a desire for a fresh face.
Political commentator and former ADQ leader Mario Dumont notably pointed to Olivier Primeau as a figure who could dramatically alter the race. “Ce serait un game changer,” Dumont noted on QUB, highlighting Primeau’s media savvy and profile. However, this external speculation has collided with Primeau’s own stated intentions.
Olivier Primeau: Political Influencer, Not a Candidate
Olivier Primeau, a 39-year-old entrepreneur known for the Beachclub and Beachday Everyday brand, has become an increasingly vocal figure on Quebec’s political and economic issues. He owns a significant portion of Quebec’s permitted water volume and has actively lobbied the government to “valorise” water as a strategic resource. In recent months, he has conducted lengthy interviews with politicians, including Premier Legault, and regularly critiques government policy, particularly on the cost of living.
Despite this engagement, Primeau has drawn a clear line. During a visit to the National Assembly this week, he explicitly denied any plan to run for the leadership of the CAQ or any party in the 2026 election. “Ça n’arrivera pas,” he stated, emphasizing his focus on his water project. “Je veux vraiment aller au fond des choses avec le plan de l’eau.” This direct denial aims to settle rumours that had gained momentum following Legault’s resignation.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Legault’s Resignation | Announced January 14, 2026. Will stay on until a new CAQ leader is elected. |
| CAQ Poll Standing | Ranked 3rd/4th, facing potential wipeout in October 2026 election. |
| Primeau’s Stance | Has publicly and definitively ruled out running for CAQ leadership or in 2026 provincial election. |
| Primeau’s Focus | Advocating for the “valorisation” of Quebec’s water resources; owns ~36% of permitted water volume. |
| Other Potential Candidates | Simon Jolin-Barrette, Geneviève Guilbault, among other CAQ ministers and MNAs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Olivier Primeau ever confirm he was running for CAQ leader?
No. Primeau has consistently been evasive about long-term political ambitions but has been unequivocal about the immediate future. In statements to journalists at the National Assembly in January 2026, he clearly stated he would not be a candidate for the CAQ leadership or run in the 2026 provincial election.
Why was there so much speculation about Primeau?
Primeau’s high profile as a businessman, his frequent political commentary on social media and radio shows, and his one-on-one interview with Premier Legault made him a subject of intrigue. Political analysts like Mario Dumont fuelled the speculation by suggesting he would be a disruptive and compelling candidate.
What is the main reason for François Legault’s resignation?
Legault cited a clear desire for change among Quebecers. This follows a dramatic collapse in his party’s popularity due to factors including the SAAQclic IT scandal, rising cost of living, a public battle with physicians, and a sense that his government had lost its way.
Who is the favourite to win the CAQ leadership?
No clear favourite has emerged. The race is just beginning, and it remains to be seen if a candidate from within the CAQ caucus can unite the party and regain public trust, or if an outsider will emerge.