The upcoming provincial election campaign is set to commence this week, with Thursday, August 27, likely to mark the official start date. While the campaign has not officially launched yet, the five major political parties have been actively engaged in election preparations for some time.
The election is scheduled to be held on October 5, and it will be the first time Quebecers will choose a government without François Legault at the helm since 2018. Legault, who led his party to consecutive majority victories in 2018 and 2022, stepped down earlier this year. Christine Fréchette succeeded him as premier in April after winning the party’s leadership contest.
Recent polls indicate a closely contested race for premier this year. According to an August 11 Léger poll, 48% of voters have made their decision, while 49% are still undecided, raising the possibility of a minority government outcome.
Noteworthy changes in this election include an increase in the number of ridings to 127, up from 125, requiring 64 seats for a majority. The main party leaders contesting this election are Christine Fréchette (CAQ), Ruba Ghazal (QS), Charles Milliard (PLQ), Éric Duhaime (PCQ), and Paul St-Pierre Plamondon (PQ).
Fréchette, who won in the Sanguinet riding in 2022, is now running in Trois-Rivières. St-Pierre Plamondon is seeking re-election in the Camille-Laurin riding, while Milliard is running in Orford. Duhaime is contesting in Bellechasse, and Ghazal aims to win Montreal’s Mercier riding for the third consecutive time.
The parties are gearing up for a competitive election, with each having distinct goals and challenges. The PQ leads in the polls but faces skepticism over its referendum plans. The Liberals are striving for a comeback under Milliard’s leadership after recent defeats. The Conservative party is seeking a breakthrough, particularly in Quebec City. QS, despite internal changes, is pushing forward in the campaign.
Key campaign issues include health and social services, the cost of living, housing, and the economy. The PQ’s referendum plans have drawn attention, especially after the party’s pledge to wait until the end of U.S. President Donald Trump’s term in 2029. Trade relations between the U.S. and Canada are also anticipated to be a significant topic of discussion.
The parties are expected to intensify their efforts as the election date approaches, vying for voter support and addressing critical issues facing Quebec.