Charles Milliard stands ready to assume leadership of the Quebec Liberal Party as the application deadline arrives today. The 46-year-old former president of the Quebec federation of chambers of commerce enjoys backing from the majority of the party caucus.
Limited Competition in the Race
Mario Roy, a farmer from Quebec’s Beauce region, remains the sole other contender who has expressed interest. However, party rules may disqualify him due to outstanding debts from the 2025 leadership contest.
Milliard’s Recent Track Record
Milliard finished second in last year’s leadership race to former federal cabinet minister Pablo Rodriguez. Rodriguez stepped down in December following allegations of vote-buying and issues with reimbursed donations.
Now, Milliard pledges to revitalize the party, which has lost support among large segments of the francophone population.
Key Moment in Quebec Politics
This leadership contest occurs amid broader shifts in Quebec politics. The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) also searches for a new leader after Premier François Legault announced his resignation last month. Voters head to the polls for the provincial election in October.
