The 1996 Bloc Québécois leadership election was the leadership election to replace Lucien Bouchard after he left the Bloc Québécois to become Premier of Quebec. Bloc MP Michel Gauthier won the election and became Leader of the Official Opposition. Gauthier's lack of profile resulted in some opposition parties mocking him as being the "faceless leader" of the opposition, as he was largely a political unknown in most of Canada and even in Quebec. His leadership was unpopular with the caucus due to alleged conservative views and his lack of "charisma or authority" when compared to Bouchard. Facing a revolt by his MPs, which culminated in the leaking of confidential caucus discussions, Gauthier resigned in March 1997.
Candidates Name Background Ref.Michel GauthierMP for Roberval—Lac-Saint-Jean (1994–2007)Joined party on October 25, 1993Francine LalondeMP for Mercier (1993–2004)Joined party on October 25, 1993
Result + First Ballot Candidate Votes Percentage Michel Gauthier 104 67.1% Francine Lalonde 51 32.9% Total 155 100%
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