A political tremor ran through Quebec Monday night as the riding of Chicoutimi dramatically shifted, returning a Parti Québécois member to the National Assembly. This wasn’t merely a win; it was a resounding echo of the past, a rejection of the governing Coalition Avenir Québec, and a potent signal of change sweeping across the province.
For decades, Chicoutimi was synonymous with the PQ, a stronghold built on a foundation of Quebec nationalism. That history was briefly interrupted in 2018, but voters have now emphatically reaffirmed their allegiance, handing PQ candidate Marie-Karlynn Laflamme a decisive victory with over 45% of the vote. This marks the fourth byelection triumph for the Parti Québécois since 2023, building significant momentum.
The scale of the shift is staggering. The CAQ, which previously held the riding with a commanding lead, saw its support collapse to just over 11%. This stunning reversal occurred despite the party’s attempt at a fresh start with a new leader, intended to distance themselves from the perceived failures of the Legault government.
While the PQ celebrated, the Conservative Party of Quebec emerged as a surprising force, securing second place with over 26% of the vote. This represents a tripling of their support from the last general election, hinting at a growing conservative presence within the province. However, the Liberals and Québec solidaire lagged far behind, struggling to gain traction.
PQ Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, basking in the glow of victory, declared the results a clear message from Quebecers demanding change. He directly addressed concerns surrounding the party’s commitment to another referendum on sovereignty, dismissing what he called a “campaign of fear” propagated by opponents. He emphasized a measured approach, promising a consultation within a four-year window, not an immediate vote.
St-Pierre Plamondon skillfully invoked the legacy of former PQ leader René Lévesque, echoing the call for “a real government” – a phrase that resonated with voters yearning for stability and effective leadership. He argued that fear should not dictate Quebec’s future, but rather a bold vision of asserting the province’s interests on the national and international stage.
Notably absent from the CAQ’s campaign efforts was Premier François Legault himself, along with the contenders vying to succeed him. This conspicuous absence spoke volumes, suggesting the party recognized the uphill battle they faced in Chicoutimi and sought to distance themselves from a potential defeat.
The byelection was triggered by the resignation of the previous CAQ MNA, who left to pursue a mayoral bid – a bid that ultimately failed. Her departure created an opportunity for the PQ to capitalize on its historical ties to the riding and reconnect with disillusioned voters. The results suggest that strategy proved remarkably effective.
The low turnout in advance polls hinted at voter fatigue, knowing a general election looms on the horizon. Yet, despite this potential discouragement, enough voters turned out to deliver a powerful statement, reshaping the political landscape of Chicoutimi and sending ripples throughout Quebec.
