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Caroline Proulx, the Housing Minister of Quebec, along with Independent MNA Vincent Marissal, has both declared on social media that they will not seek re-election in the provincial elections scheduled for 2026.
Quebec Housing Minister’s Announcement
Caroline Proulx, a key member of Premier François Legault’s cabinet since the Coalition Avenir Québec assumed office in 2018, expressed that her commitment to the province remains unwavering.
“As I near my 60th birthday, I aim to embrace the future in a new way — dedicating my experiences to support various projects and causes,” she shared on X Monday. “What will remain constant is my enthusiasm, my commitment, and my deep love for Quebec.”
Caroline Proulx was appointed as the MNA for the Berthier constituency and dedicated almost seven years to serving as the province’s tourism minister before moving through various prominent roles in late 2025.
Future Plans After Politics
Among her duties, she served for a short time as the minister responsible for seniors and as the minister delegate for health.
“This happened during a particularly challenging time for me personally, as the realities of family life became increasingly difficult to balance with the pressures of political duties,” Proulx remarked, emphasizing that she needed to temporarily relinquish her ministerial roles.
“This is a part of the journey that guides me toward the choice I am making today.”
Legacy in Provincial Government
Caroline Proulx has taken charge of the Lanaudière and Bas-Saint-Laurent areas. Since September, she has been serving as both the housing minister and the minister in charge of women’s issues — roles she describes as “deeply human and central to our experiences as Quebecers.”
Caroline Proulx stated that she intends to stay committed to her duties until her term concludes.
From travel to real estate
Reflections on Political Career
Caroline Proulx’s leadership has been characterized by her management of the tourism sector during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
This involved making and publicizing choices during a period when travel was limited, impacting the tourism sector throughout the province.
She was also involved in the government’s efforts to regulate short-term rentals such as Airbnbs, which have led to laws mandating that companies verify the legality of the listings on their platforms. Those who violate these regulations could face penalties of up to $100,000 for each unauthorized post discovered.
“I take great pride in the successes we have achieved,” Proulx remarked, expressing her gratitude to Legault for his confidence in her.
“This trust stands as one of the most significant privileges of my public service and strengthens my belief that a robust, unifying, and accountable ‘third way’ is crucial for Quebec’s future.”
Marissal reflects on his tenure in office
On Monday morning, Marissal took to social media to announce that he needs to "rediscover" himself and contribute to Quebec in different capacities.
Marissal metaphorically shut the door on QS as he departed, claiming the party was constrained by its “militant” supporters. He also mentioned that the party’s pro-union position during various public transit strikes in Montreal last year played a role in his split from QS.
During that period, QS co-spokesperson Ruba Ghazal compared her discussions with Plamondon to "being betrayed by your partner," describing it as a "violation of trust."
Concluding his post on Monday, Marissal mentioned that he has several writing endeavors planned and has additional insights to share regarding his political journey.
"I hold no resentment towards anyone and I fully acknowledge my actions and public remarks," he stated.
"I take great pride in having been elected twice by the wonderful citizens of Rosemont, and I continue to feel grateful for the trust, camaraderie, and even warmth they extend to me each day."
Marissal served as Québec Solidaire’s health spokesperson at the National Assembly and was a prominent advocate for the enhancement of the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital located in his constituency.
He briefly thought about running in Montreal’s 2025 mayoral election but ultimately chose a different path.
