Provincial Capital Braces for High-Stakes By-election as PQ Nears CAQ in Polls
In the provincial capital of Quebec, an upcoming by-election is set to intensify as the Parti Québécois (PQ) closes in on the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) in recent polls. This election holds significant implications for the political landscape, as the PQ seeks to challenge the dominance of Premier François Legault and his CAQ party.
Last year, Legault secured an overwhelming majority with approximately 40 percent of the vote, thanks to a highly fractured opposition. The remaining 60 percent was divided amongst four opposition parties, none of which posed a serious threat to the CAQ’s reign. However, the political dynamics are shifting, and the PQ is now emerging as a formidable contender.
The upcoming by-election in the Jean-Talon riding, encompassing Ste-Foy and Sillery, is particularly crucial. In 2019, the CAQ managed to break the long-standing Liberal dominance in this district, marking a significant turning point. Joëlle Boutin, the CAQ candidate who won the by-election in 2019 and again in 2022, recently announced her resignation, prompting the current by-election.
Early polling data indicates a fascinating shift in voting intentions, with the PQ and CAQ appearing to be in a tight race. PQ Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has been garnering positive reviews for his approach to politics, which starkly contrasts Legault’s often caustic demeanor. On the ground, campaigners are reporting that Plamondon’s emphasis on changing the tone resonates with voters, leaving an impact during door-to-door interactions.
The PQ’s candidate for the by-election is Pascal Paradis, co-founder of Lawyers Without Borders. With his background and the PQ’s growing momentum, Paradis has the potential to harness the desires for a more respectful political climate that voters are expressing.
As this high-stakes by-election inches closer, both the CAQ and the PQ are putting their full effort into winning over constituents. The race is expected to be a close one, showcasing the shifting dynamics and potential for a more evenly distributed balance of power.
It remains to be seen how the upcoming by-election will shape the future of politics in Quebec. With the PQ narrowing the gap with the CAQ, Premier Legault’s position may no longer be the foregone conclusion it once appeared to be. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the provincial capital braces for a significant political showdown that could have far-reaching consequences.
