Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has announced that a sovereignty referendum will not be held while U.S. President Donald Trump remains in office. This decision was communicated in a statement released just over a week before Quebec’s election campaign is set to begin.
St-Pierre Plamondon clarified that if his party secures a majority in Quebec’s upcoming October 5 election, he would have until his first mandate expires to potentially hold a referendum, with Trump’s term ending on January 20, 2029.
Speaking to CBC News, St-Pierre Plamondon emphasized the need to address issues created by the current government and stated that the focus would be on rectifying these concerns rather than rushing into a referendum.
The decision to defer the referendum was influenced by the impact of U.S. tariffs on the Quebec economy, amidst economic uncertainties. Poll analyst Philippe Fournier noted that the Parti Québécois holds a slight lead over the Quebec Liberal Party in opinion polls but highlighted that most voters are not in favor of an immediate referendum.
Opposition parties criticized St-Pierre Plamondon’s move, with Conservative Party of Quebec leader Éric Duhaime labeling him a “referendum weather vane” for altering his stance shortly before the election. Other party leaders expressed varying opinions on the postponement, with concerns raised about the clarity of the PQ’s intentions.
St-Pierre Plamondon defended his decision, reiterating his commitment to holding a referendum within the party’s first mandate. He emphasized the need for a clear and comprehensive campaign strategy on all fronts.
Fournier suggested that this strategy might resonate with voters who seek change but are hesitant about an immediate referendum. However, uncertainties remain about its effectiveness.