Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has announced that there will be no sovereignty referendum while U.S. President Donald Trump remains in office. This decision gives St-Pierre Plamondon a window until Jan. 20, 2029, to potentially hold a referendum if his party wins a majority in Quebec’s upcoming Oct. 5 election.
St-Pierre Plamondon clarified his party’s stance, emphasizing a referendum within the first four years of his mandate, but not during Trump’s tenure. He highlighted the need to address issues left by the current government and distanced his party from the influence of U.S. politics.
This announcement comes against a backdrop of economic concerns due to anticipated U.S. tariffs affecting Quebec. Poll analyst Philippe Fournier noted that while the PQ leads in opinion polls, voter sentiment shows reluctance towards another referendum at present.
Critics, including Conservative Party Leader Éric Duhaime and Quebec Liberal Party Leader Charles Milliard, criticized St-Pierre Plamondon’s decision, questioning the PQ’s commitment to independence and the clarity of its agenda. Current premier Christine Fréchette deemed the announcement irresponsible given the tariff situation.
Despite the postponement, St-Pierre Plamondon reiterated the PQ’s commitment to holding a referendum within its first mandate. The move is seen as an attempt to appeal to a broad voter base and replace the current government.
It remains to be seen if St-Pierre Plamondon’s strategy will resonate with voters, particularly those hesitant about another referendum but seeking political change.