The provincial election campaign is set to commence this week, with Thursday, August 27, likely serving as the official start date. Despite the campaign not officially launching yet, the five primary political parties have been actively engaged in election activities for some time.
Key points to consider include the upcoming election scheduled for October 5, where Quebecers will elect a new government not led by François Legault for the first time since 2018. Following Legault’s resignation earlier this year, Christine Fréchette took over as premier after winning the party’s leadership race. Recent polls indicate a closely contested race for premier, with the potential for a minority government, a scenario not seen since 2012.
Moreover, there are 127 ridings in this election, up from 125 previously, increasing the majority threshold to 64 seats. The main party leaders vying for the premiership include Christine Fréchette (CAQ), Ruba Ghazal (QS), Charles Milliard (PLQ), Éric Duhaime (PCQ), and Paul St-Pierre Plamondon (PQ), each running in different ridings across Quebec.
The election holds significance for each party, with the PQ leading in polls despite facing challenges related to a promised referendum. The Liberals are striving for a comeback following previous defeats, while Quebec’s Conservative party aims for a breakthrough, particularly in the Quebec City region. Quèbec Solidaire faces changes with prominent figures leaving the party ahead of the election.
Key campaign issues revolve around health and social services, the cost of living, housing, and the economy. The PQ’s referendum plans and recent U.S.-Canada trade tensions are also expected to be prominent topics during the election campaign.