The Big Five Podcast The rise and fall of François Legault. Plus: The SAQ will deliver booze to your door.
Jan 15, 2026
Caroline Codsi, a champion for gender parity and governance reforms, teams up with Lea Streliski, a bestselling author and comedian, to dissect the political landscape of Quebec. They reflect on François Legault's tenure, weighing his initial pandemic leadership against diminishing public services and confrontational politics. The duo also explores the potential successors for Legault in the CAQ and discusses Canada’s evolving relationship with China. Finally, they debate the implications of the SAQ's new home delivery service for alcohol, considering public health concerns.
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Pandemic Leadership Turned Liability
- François Legault was reassuring during the pandemic and presented a successful-business persona that appealed to voters.
- His autocratic, managerial style and dismissal of dissent later eroded public support and helped precipitate his departure.
Feeling Of Losing 'Papa' Legault
- Lea Streliski described feeling like Quebec has lost a paternal political figure after Legault's surprise resignation.
- She framed the moment as an end of an era and a sign of broader generational change.
Mixed Record: Results And Reversals
- Legault delivered tangible results but presided over weakened education and health systems and strained labour relations.
- Major economic bets like Northvolt failed publicly, producing a mixed long-term record.