Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has clarified that a sovereignty referendum will not be pursued while U.S. President Donald Trump remains in office. With Trump’s term ending in January 2029, St-Pierre Plamondon would have approximately a year and a half to hold a referendum if his party secures a majority in the upcoming Quebec election on October 5.
St-Pierre Plamondon emphasized that his party’s focus is on addressing issues created by the current Coalition Avenir Québec government rather than rushing into a referendum. He highlighted the impact of U.S. politics on Canadian affairs and noted that the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s administration has influenced the political landscape.
The announcement by St-Pierre Plamondon, made amidst concerns over impending U.S. tariffs affecting the Quebec economy, has been viewed as an attempt to ease voter apprehensions. Poll analyst Philippe Fournier highlighted the PQ’s slight lead over the Quebec Liberal Party in opinion polls but pointed out that the majority of voters are currently not in favor of another referendum.
Opposition parties, including the Conservative Party of Quebec, criticized St-Pierre Plamondon’s decision to delay the referendum, labeling him a “referendum weather vane.” The Quebec Liberal Party and the current premier, Christine Fréchette, also expressed skepticism about the PQ’s stance on separation and the timing of the announcement.
Despite the criticism, St-Pierre Plamondon reaffirmed that a PQ government would proceed with a referendum within its first mandate. The party aims to run a comprehensive campaign addressing various issues to appeal to voters, particularly those who support a change in leadership but may not be enthusiastic about a referendum.
While some believe St-Pierre Plamondon’s strategy may resonate with certain voter sentiments, there are doubts about its effectiveness. The PQ leader’s decision has sparked debate and scrutiny from political opponents and observers alike as Quebec prepares for the upcoming election.