Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has announced that a sovereignty referendum will not be held while U.S. President Donald Trump is in office, which is until Jan. 20, 2029. This decision allows St-Pierre Plamondon over a year and a half to conduct a referendum if his party secures a majority in Quebec’s upcoming election on Oct. 5.
St-Pierre Plamondon emphasized in media interviews that his party’s focus, if elected, will be on addressing the challenges created by the current Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government. He highlighted that they have consistently mentioned a referendum within the first four years of their mandate and are now providing more specifics.
The decision to postpone the referendum comes against a backdrop of economic concerns related to potential U.S. tariffs, which have previously impacted Quebec’s economy significantly. Poll analyst Philippe Fournier noted that while the Parti Québécois (PQ) holds a narrow lead in opinion polls over the Quebec Liberal Party, most voters are not in favor of an immediate referendum.
Critics, including Éric Duhaime from the Conservative Party of Quebec and Quebec Liberal Party Leader Charles Milliard, have criticized St-Pierre Plamondon’s decision. Duhaime labeled him a “referendum weather vane,” questioning his consistency on the issue of independence. Milliard suggested that the PQ’s postponement reflects uncertainty about separating Quebec from Canada.
Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette of the Coalition Avenir Québec criticized the announcement, citing its irresponsibility given the current economic climate influenced by potential tariffs. Despite the criticisms, St-Pierre Plamondon reiterated his commitment to holding a referendum within his government’s first mandate, aiming for a clear and comprehensive campaign on all fronts.
The decision to delay the referendum is seen as an attempt to address voter concerns amid global uncertainties, particularly related to U.S. politics and trade policies. However, the effectiveness of this strategy remains uncertain, as it may impact the party’s support base and voter perception leading up to the election.