Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois has announced his departure from political life, citing exhaustion from internal conflicts within Québec solidaire over the past two years. Reflecting during his parental leave, he concluded that he is no longer the right person to lead the party. Although stepping down as co-spokesperson, he will continue to serve as the Gouin MP until his term ends. Nadeau-Dubois’s journey in politics began with student protests in 2012, culminating in leadership roles within the party amidst significant challenges.
Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois Announces Departure from Political Life
Feeling “exhausted” by the tumultuous internal conflicts within Québec solidaire over the past two years, Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois has made the poignant decision to step away from political life at the conclusion of his term. With emotion in his voice, he confirmed his resignation as co-spokesperson for the party.
“I am no longer the right person to unite and energize this party,” he stated, following a period of deep reflection during his parental leave, which he recently concluded. “In the last three months, I had the rare opportunity to think deeply. The sleepless nights with my newborn and the walks to daycare with my oldest gave me perspective,” he shared.
After dedicating 15 years to political and social causes, the new father expressed that the initial “momentum” that fueled his commitment has faded.
Challenges and Changes Within the Party
“The past two years have been challenging not only for Québec solidaire but also for me personally,” he noted, alluding to the turbulence caused by the departures of prominent party members. These significant changes have left a mark on his experience and outlook.
He acknowledged the struggles faced, including the departure of Catherine Dorion, who chose not to seek reelection in 2022, and Émilise Lessard-Therrien, who stepped down as co-spokesperson just months after her appointment. “The successive crises have taken their toll,” admitted Nadeau-Dubois. “I am worn out and cannot continue under these circumstances, especially now that I am a father of two.” He expressed a desire to step aside to make room for new leadership, particularly in light of the rise of the “radical right” globally.
While Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois will not participate in the 2026 elections, he plans to fulfill his duties as the Gouin MP and remain active within the Québec solidaire caucus until his last day in office. “This is not an abandonment; I am only letting go of titles and roles,” he clarified, dismissing any intentions to shift to federal or municipal politics.
His colleague Ruba Ghazal, who has taken over as parliamentary leader since December, will now need to identify a new male co-spokesperson for the party.
As he approaches his 35th birthday on May 31, Nadeau-Dubois reflects on his journey, which began as a co-spokesperson for the Coalition large de l’Association pour une solidarité syndicale étudiante (CLASSE) during the 2012 student protests. He joined Québec solidaire eight years ago and won the election for male co-spokesperson in the Gouin riding in May 2017, following Françoise David’s exit.
In the 2018 elections, he prioritized his female counterpart, Manon Massé, during the national campaign, later succeeding her as parliamentary leader in the fall session of 2021. His tenure has been notably marked by conflicts with fellow MPs Catherine Dorion and Émilise Lessard-Therrien, who both faced their own challenges within the party structure.