Christine Fréchette steps down as Coalition Avenir Québec leader

Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette has resigned as the leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ). The announcement came in Quebec City following the party's defeat in the provincial election on Monday. The CAQ had governed the province for eight years before the election began in August. The Parti Québécois emerged victorious, forming a minority government with the support of several smaller parties.

Fréchette announced that she would continue as premier until Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the leader of the Parti Québécois, is sworn in as the new premier. She had only been in the role for a few months, replacing François Legault as CAQ leader in April. Political analysts are divided on the future of the CAQ. While some believe the party can adapt and survive, others argue that the party's success in the election was due to the PQ's unpopularity.

University of Montreal political science professor Martin Papillon notes that the CAQ, founded by Legault, lacks the historical roots that could help it withstand such a defeat. Fréchette's resignation is likely the end of her political career, as she failed to win her riding in the election.