What Happened
The Parti Québécois (PQ) has secured a decisive victory in the recent byelection in Chicoutimi, marking its fourth consecutive win in by-elections since 2023. PQ candidate Marie-Karlynn Laflamme garnered approximately 2,760 votes, leading by a margin of 1,210 votes over Conservative Party of Quebec (PCQ) candidate Catherine Morissette. The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), which previously held the seat, trailed behind along with the Liberal Party and Québec solidaire.
Why It Matters
This victory is significant as it restores the PQ’s presence in a region historically known for its support of Quebec nationalism. The riding of Chicoutimi was previously held by CAQ member Andrée Laforest, who resigned to pursue municipal politics. The PQ’s win increases its representation in the National Assembly from three to seven seats, a notable recovery from the aftermath of the 2022 general election.
What’s Next
With less than eight months until Quebec’s next general election, the PQ is positioned favorably in the polls, with party leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon pledging a sovereignty referendum by 2030 if elected. The CAQ is currently undergoing a leadership transition following Premier François Legault’s announcement of his resignation, adding further dynamics to the upcoming electoral landscape.
