Quebec political leaders clash in televised election debates

Quebec political leaders participated in a series of televised debates as part of the 2026 election campaign. The sessions, organized by Noovo and Crave, featured five major party leaders: Christine Fréchette (CAQ), Paul St-Pierre Plamondon (PQ), Éric Duhaime (PCQ), Charles Milliard (PLQ), and Ruba Ghazal (QS).

During the debates, CAQ leader Christine Fréchette focused on themes of stability, contrasting her platform against the potential uncertainty of a sovereignty referendum proposed by the Parti Québécois. Fréchette criticized the PQ's projected $130 million spending on referendum organization, suggesting those funds should instead be directed toward education. She also acknowledged that the CAQ “has not been perfect” during its previous mandates but claimed to have learned from past errors.

Opposition leaders utilized the debates to challenge the CAQ's record on immigration and the economy. Paul St-Pierre Plamondon defended his positions against attacks regarding infrastructure and sovereignty, while the debates covered critical issues including the cost of living, healthcare, youth, and the French language. Recent polling indicated the Parti Québécois leading with 28 per cent, followed by the CAQ at 23 per cent.