Geneviève Guilbault, a prominent figure in the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) for the past eight years, will exit political life at the end of her term. This news comes as she prepares to announce her decision not to run in the upcoming elections during a press conference in her electoral district of Louis-Hébert, Quebec. Guilbault, who first won her seat in October 2017, has long been considered a potential successor to François Legault, the party leader.
Background and Political Career
Guilbault’s political journey began when she was elected during a by-election in Louis-Hébert. Her victory served as a significant symbol for the CAQ, representing a shift in the political landscape of Quebec. The CAQ, under Legault, quickly gained favor among voters, ultimately winning the general elections in 2018 and breaking a decades-long power alternation between the Liberals and the Parti Québécois.
- First elected: October 2017
- Appointed as Vice Premier: October 2018
- Minister of Public Security: October 2018
- Minister of Transportation: October 2022
Controversies and Challenges
Throughout her career, Guilbault faced several challenges and controversies. Most notably, she dealt with the fallout from the SAAQclic fiasco, where her management came under scrutiny. This incident involved significant cost overruns, with reports indicating nearly $500 million in excess costs related to the platform.
In light of these issues, Guilbault received a “notice of misconduct” from the Gallant Commission. This undermining of her credibility was compounded by doubts raised during her testimonies regarding the timeline of her knowledge of the financial problems.
Personal Reasons for Departure
As she reflects on her political future, Guilbault has cited familial reasons for her decision to step away. With two young children, 8-year-old Capucine and 6-year-old Christophe, she expressed a desire to be more present for her family. The recent announcement of François Legault’s resignation further influenced her decision to exit the political arena.
Significant Political Milestones
Guilbault has been involved in numerous initiatives and legislative changes during her time in office. Some of her notable contributions include:
- Introduced reforms in the police system.
- Launched the Centaure operation to combat weapon trafficking.
- Implemented measures to address domestic violence, including the use of proximity alert bracelets.
Despite her achievements, her time in politics was marred by setbacks, including personnel changes within her cabinet and public relations missteps.
Conclusion
Geneviève Guilbault’s departure marks the end of an era for the CAQ. Her influence in Quebec politics has been significant, from her early days as a rising star to her pivotal roles in various ministries. As she transitions to life outside of politics, her commitment to her family takes precedence. This notable shift invites reflections on her legacy and the future leadership of the CAQ.
