Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has confirmed that a sovereignty referendum will not be pursued while U.S. President Donald Trump is in office, with his term ending on Jan. 20, 2029. St-Pierre Plamondon clarified this stance ahead of Quebec’s upcoming election campaign, emphasizing that the focus will be on addressing issues created by the current Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) administration.
The decision comes amidst concerns over impending U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainties, following previous tariff impacts on the Quebec economy. Poll analyst Philippe Fournier noted that the Parti Québécois (PQ) holds a slight lead over the Quebec Liberal Party in polls, highlighting voters’ current disinterest in a referendum.
Opposition parties criticized St-Pierre Plamondon’s move, with Conservative Party of Quebec leader Éric Duhaime labeling him a “referendum weather vane” for altering his stance shortly before the election. Quebec Liberal Party Leader Charles Milliard suggested that the postponement reflects doubts about separatism and criticized the PQ’s lack of clarity.
Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette of the Coalition Avenir Québec denounced the announcement as “irresponsible” given the tariff situation. Despite the postponement, St-Pierre Plamondon maintains that a referendum would be held within the PQ’s first term, aiming for a clear and comprehensive campaign strategy.
Fournier speculated that the PQ’s revised approach might attract voters who seek change but are hesitant about a referendum. The effectiveness of this strategy remains uncertain, as it attempts to navigate the complex political landscape ahead of the election.