Parti Quebecois Wins Quebec Election, Promises Independence Referendum
The Parti Quebecois (PQ) has won the most seats in Quebec's election, returning to power after eight years. Led by Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the PQ has pledged to hold a third referendum on independence from Canada, although it will wait until U.S. President Donald Trump leaves office. The party's seat count in the 127-member National Assembly is still unclear, with 64 seats needed for a majority. The PQ's victory ends the Coalition Avenir Quebec's rule, which previously held 79 seats. Support for independence in Quebec remains around 30%, low by historical standards. This election outcome poses a new challenge for Prime Minister Mark Carney, especially with an upcoming independence-related vote in Alberta on October 19.
Published 22 hours ago • 06 Oct 2026, 08:10 AM IST