Coalition Avenir Québec Leader François Legault, left, applauds Arthabaska MNA Eric Lefebvre after he was sworn in, Monday, Dec. 12, 2016, at the legislature in Quebec City. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is dipping into the Quebec government ranks for a new candidate. Lefebvre is leaving the province's ruling party to prepare to run for the Conservatives in the next federal election. THE CANADIAN PRESS
In a surprising move, the Quebec government whip, Eric Lefebvre, has parted ways with the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) to align himself with the federal Conservative Party, raising questions about the future of Quebec's ruling party amidst a decline in popularity.
Lefebvre declared his intention to serve as an Independent in the Quebec legislature before transitioning to join the Conservatives under Pierre Poilievre's leadership for the upcoming federal elections, scheduled by October 2025.
Expressing his pride in Lefebvre's decision, Poilievre emphasized the newcomer's role in advancing Conservative priorities, including tax reduction, housing initiatives, fiscal rehabilitation, and crime prevention.
The sudden departure of Lefebvre from the CAQ has triggered speculation among fellow legislators, with one cabinet minister, Eric Girard, declining to dismiss the possibility of joining the federal Tories. Girard hinted at his longstanding affection for Canada and his potential interest in the role of Canada's Finance Minister, although he refrained from confirming any imminent party switch.
Lefebvre becomes the second CAQ member to exit the party since its sweeping victory in 2022, following Joëlle Boutin's departure last July. Premier François Legault acknowledged Lefebvre's decision, expressing gratitude for his past service and extending best wishes for his future endeavors.
Criticism of Lefebvre's decision came from various quarters, including opposition parties and members within the CAQ, who questioned the propriety of remaining in office as an Independent. Martine Biron, Minister of International Relations, voiced curiosity about the rationale behind Lefebvre's departure, highlighting the expectations of his constituents.
Mario Asselin, another CAQ member, described Lefebvre as one of the first to abandon ship, hinting at potential further departures. The CAQ's decline in popularity, trailing behind the Parti Québécois in recent polls, has raised concerns within the party about its future stability.
Meanwhile, Poilievre's Conservatives enjoy favorable polling numbers, though they currently rank third in Quebec behind the Bloc Québécois and the Liberals. Lefebvre's decision to contest the federal riding of Richmond-Arthabaska, previously held by the Conservatives, underscores his alignment with the party's objectives. Alain Rayes, the former representative, opted to sit as an Independent following Poilievre's ascension to party leadership in 2022, and subsequently announced his retirement from politics in September.
Having previously contested the same federal riding in 2008, Lefebvre's transition from provincial to federal politics marks a significant shift in his political trajectory. As the former government whip, his departure from the CAQ leaves a void in the party's legislative apparatus, prompting reflection on its future direction.
