Quebec election interference allegations prompt CSIS contact

Coalition Avenir Québec Leader Christine Fréchette has contacted the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) following allegations of political interference from the United States during the Quebec election campaign.

Fréchette has requested a meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney to address concerns that American officials may be attempting to influence the province's political landscape. The allegations follow reports that U.S. government officials attempted to negotiate tariffs directly with the Quebec government regarding CUSMA sectors.

Additionally, reports highlighted an essay published in February by the U.S.-based Defense Analyses and Research Corporation. The document reportedly called for Americans to destabilize the Canadian federation by supporting the election of sovereigntists and using reconciliation efforts to ‘slowly nudge’ the country toward a different political path. Fréchette stated that the issue is serious and that Quebecers must be the ones to decide the next government.