Quebec Votes Today, Pro-Independence PQ Leads in Polls

Quebec is voting today in a provincial election across 127 ridings, with the pro-independence Parti Québécois (PQ) and its leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon leading in recent polls. The PQ has promised to hold a referendum on Quebec’s independence if it forms government.

However, Plamondon has made it clear that the referendum would not take place before 2029, while Donald Trump remains in the White House.

The PQ is competing against the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), which has been in power for two consecutive terms. CAQ leader Christine Fréchette has campaigned on what she describes as a third path between federalism and sovereignty.

During the 39-day campaign, major issues have included economic uncertainty linked to Trump, Quebec sovereignty and nationalism, as well as immigration.

Elections Quebec says nearly one-quarter of voters have already cast their ballots during advance voting. Results are expected to begin coming in this evening.