The Parti Québécois (PQ) in Quebec is facing challenges as support for independence has decreased in the face of threats from the Trump administration. The party, under the leadership of Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, has been leading in the polls but faces uncertainty as support for sovereignty has dropped to 29 percent. Despite this, the PQ remains committed to its message of independence, believing it inspires Quebecers to have leaders who are faithful to their convictions and values. However, the current context of increased patriotism in Canada has led to a decrease in support for the PQ and independence.
The commitment to sovereignty is central to the PQ’s identity under the leadership of St-Pierre Plamondon, who took over the party in 2020 when it was on the verge of collapse. Despite support for independence never climbing above 35 percent in recent years, St-Pierre Plamondon has stood firm on his pledge to hold a referendum in a first mandate. However, this commitment could be viewed as an “Achilles heel” in the context of Trump’s threats, as campaigning against the PQ could focus on the instability a referendum would bring. Quebec Premier François Legault has seized the opportunity to argue against preparing for a referendum at this time, but the PQ has not backed down from its stance.
The PQ has published a video on social media claiming the concept of Canadian unity is a myth and that Quebec would be better off defending its interests and protecting its border if it separated from Canada. The party believes an independent Quebec would be stronger and better suited to deal with external threats. While some see the PQ needing to be taken more seriously on economic matters rather than just identity issues, others believe the party should hold steady on sovereignty. There is optimism that support for independence will rebound if Quebecers feel that Ottawa is not prioritizing their interests.
Political analyst and former staffer for the PQ and the Coalition Avenir Québec, Antonine Yaccarini, believes that Quebecers will look for someone to defend them on issues of independence and sovereignty. Despite the current challenges facing the PQ, there is a belief that support for independence may resurface in the future. The party continues to stand by its commitment to hold a referendum and pursue independence for Quebec. As the political landscape in Quebec continues to evolve in response to external threats and internal dynamics, the PQ faces the task of maintaining its position on sovereignty while addressing the concerns and priorities of Quebecers.
