He built the CAQ as a coalition of federalists and sovereigntists who agreed to focus on Quebec's economic challenges

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François Legault announced yesterday that he will step down as premier of Quebec once his party selects a new leader. His departure marks the end of an era dominated by premiers born during the baby boom or earlier, as most of the contenders for the job at next October’s election are in their 40s or 50s. Other Canadians should harbour no illusions, however: the question of Quebec’s place within the Canadian federation will remain at the heart of political debate in the province.

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At the news conference announcing his resignation, Legault said he was leaving because he wanted the next election to focus on issues, such as Quebec’s economy and the future of the French language, rather than on voters’ desire for change. Indeed, the strength of this aspiration for change was confirmed this week by a