(Quebec) Premier Francois Legault is in no rush to appoint a new chief whip after the departure of his MP Eric Lefebvre, who is heading to the conservative camp at the federal level. A decision that incites a “race” among CAQ members to obtain this post, which allows the lucky minister to participate in meetings of the Council of Ministers.
The Cauquists expect their leader to choose either Nancy Guillemette (Roberval) or Claude Reid (Beauharnois). Since the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) was re-elected in 2022, they have been deputy whips, as has Genevieve Hébert (Saint-François). The name Donald Martel (Nicolet-Bécancour) is also in circulation.
Some mention Samuel Bowlin (Beuze-Shutt), who is suspected of crossing the fence and going federal under the Conservative banner.
Mr. Legault's entourage has indicated that the Prime Minister will take the time necessary to select the chief whip, the governing body responsible for discipline. It was emphasized that we should not expect a short-term appointment.
Could Francois Legault be patient enough to fill this position as part of a formal ministerial reshuffle? This is not possible, we suggest.
On social media, Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, said he was “very proud” to have former government whip Eric Lefebvre, his party's candidate in Arthabasca-Richmond, take his CAQ. Mr. Lefebvre first tried his luck in the riding under the Conservative banner in 2008.
“Eric Lefebvre is very proud to be part of a common-sense conservative team that will help lower taxes, build housing, fix the budget and stop crime,” said Mr. Poilivre wrote Wednesday. He is holding a rally on Sunday in Victoriaville.
QS and PQ discomfort
The Quebec Solider (QS) and the Parti Québécois (PQ) have expressed their displeasure with Eric Lefebvre's decision to remain an independent MP in Quebec, while admitting he wants to jump to the federal government.
Solidarity MP Vincent Marisal called on his colleague to make a decision out of respect for his constituents.
According to PQ MP Pascal Bérubé, Mr. Lefebvre had to explain his departure after the last provincial election, especially as he sat in the cabinet as government whip.
Interim Liberal leader Mark Tanguay was very circumspect about the former CAQ's decision, confirming he took it 100% to continue his work as an MP.
Mr. with Conservative leader Pierre Poilivre.
Thomas Laberge, Canadian Press
