Canadian media projects the sovereigntist Parti Québécois (PQ) will secure a minority win in Monday's provincial election in Quebec. This outcome makes Paul St-Pierre Plamondon the incoming premier, marking the PQ's return to power for the first time since 2014.
The party has pledged to hold a referendum on Quebec's independence, similar to an upcoming vote in Alberta later this month. Plamondon has stated that such a vote would occur after US President Donald Trump is out of office, which would likely schedule a third plebiscite for 2029 or 2030.
Beyond sovereignty, Plamondon has indicated a willingness to challenge Ottawa on provincial interests, including immigration. He has also pledged to "abolish the monarchy in Quebec" and redirect funds from its institutions to social services, suggesting defunding the lieutenant-governor's office to tackle homelessness. This plan is likely to face significant legal challenges due to the monarchy's constitutional role.
Prime Minister Mark Carney congratulated Plamondon on his victory and expressed a desire to work together. Carney stated on social media, "Building a stronger Québec is core to our mission of building a stronger Canada."