Quebec provincial election campaigns

The Quebec provincial election cycle has seen various candidates announce their runs in specific ridings. In Duplessis, Alexandre Deschênes filed for the Parti Marxiste-Léniniste du Québec, focusing on workers' rights and regional issues. In Portneuf, Raymond Francoeur announced his candidacy for the Parti Québécois, citing a desire to restore public confidence and support Quebec sovereignty.

As the campaign progressed, candidates in the Duplessis riding participated in a Radio-Canada debate. Discussions centered on regional infrastructure, such as the extension of Route 138, and healthcare access on the North Shore. While the Coalition avenir Québec proposed new sections for Route 138, opponents criticized the proposal for lacking a clear plan. Additionally, the Parti Québécois advocated for increased investment in CLSCs and higher subsidies for patients traveling outside the region for medical care.

In a final televised debate hosted by Radio-Canada, leaders from the five major political parties addressed sovereignty, the economy, healthcare, and immigration. Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon stated a potential referendum would not be triggered while the Trump administration is in power, citing the need for a ‘serene political climate,’ and pledged $130 million for consultations prior to a potential vote after January 2029. Québec solidaire co-spokesperson Ruba Ghazal also supported sovereignty, emphasizing the inclusion of Indigenous and English-speaking populations.

Coalition Avenir Québec leader Christine Fréchette faced questioning regarding historical deficits and rising emergency room wait times. Meanwhile, Liberal leader Charles Milliard identified economic stability and immigration as the primary concerns for the province.