Former Québec Solidaire Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Vincent Marissal, who previously announced his retirement from politics, is making a switch to join the Parti Québécois for the upcoming general election. The announcement was made by PQ Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, who revealed that Marissal will be a candidate in the Taschereau riding in the Quebec City region.
Marissal’s departure from Québec Solidaire was not without controversy, as he was suspended by the caucus last year due to discussions he had with the PQ regarding running for them in the next election. Marissal clarified that his decision to leave QS was voluntary. St-Pierre Plamondon highlighted Marissal’s parliamentary work ethic and experience, stating that his contributions will greatly benefit the Parti Québécois.
The PQ leader praised Marissal for his dedication to various issues, including their joint efforts on the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital matter. Marissal, who served as an MNA in Rosemont since 2018, will now be challenging his former QS colleague Ãtienne Grandmont for the Taschereau seat, while facing other opponents from the Quebec Liberal Party, Quebec Conservative Party, and an unannounced candidate from the Coalition Avenir Québec.
The Taschereau riding has a history of political shifts, with QS winning in 2018 after the PQ had a long-standing hold since 1994 under MNA Agnès Maltais. St-Pierre Plamondon expressed confidence in Marissal’s understanding of local issues and commitment to representing the interests of the riding, emphasizing his preparedness to address concerns like homelessness, air quality, and community revitalization.