Separatists win in Quebec – but does that bring separation from Canada any closer?
The Parti Québécois (PQ), which supports Quebec leaving Canada, won Monday’s provincial election. But its roughly 28% share of the popular vote was unusually low, and the party did not secure a majority.
That result casts doubt on the PQ’s ability to hold a referendum or advance other plans, including ending the monarchy and extending language rules to colleges. Its proposed immigration cuts also face resistance from farmers and businesses.
The vote appears to reflect widespread dissatisfaction with the governing Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), which lost every seat. Its leader, Christine Fréchette, lost her district and resigned on Tuesday.
The Conservative Party of Quebec made gains outside Montreal, while the federalist Liberals won seats in Montreal and the Eastern Townships. The Liberals will form the official opposition.
The PQ will govern with limited representation in Montreal, a challenge for any effort to win a separation vote. Whether it can pursue a referendum remains uncertain.
Key points
- The PQ won Quebec’s election without a majority and with about 28% of the vote.
- The CAQ lost all its seats, and leader Christine Fréchette resigned.
- Liberal strength in Montreal could complicate the PQ’s path to a successful referendum.