Pablo Rodriguez Resigns from Cabinet to Pursue Quebec Liberal Leadership

The federal Transport Minister and Quebec lieutenant aims to lead the PLQ, stepping down amid recent Liberal defeats.

Pablo Rodriguez, federal Transport Minister and Quebec lieutenant, announced his resignation to run for the leadership of the Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ).
Rodriguez will continue to serve as an Independent MP for Honoré-Mercier until the leadership race officially begins in January 2025.
His departure follows significant losses for the federal Liberals in recent by-elections, including the traditionally strong Liberal ridings of LaSalle–Émard–Verdun and Toronto–St. Paul's.
Rodriguez joins four other candidates in the race to succeed Dominique Anglade, with the new PLQ leader to be chosen in the summer of 2025.
Key Liberal figures have expressed disappointment at Rodriguez's departure, acknowledging the void it creates within both the federal cabinet and Quebec caucus.