The leader of the Parti Québécois, Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, declared on Tuesday that the party will refrain from organizing a referendum as long as President Donald Trump is in office. St-Pierre Plamondon emphasized the importance of ensuring that Quebec’s political future discussions are not influenced by American politics. He highlighted that the upcoming government will encounter significant challenges without the need for a referendum. St-Pierre Plamondon explicitly stated that a referendum will not be considered by the end of Trump’s second term, which concludes on January 20, 2029.

If elected, St-Pierre Plamondon pledged to seek input from Quebecers on independence during his initial term, post-Trump’s presidency. This announcement precedes the imminent launch of the Quebec provincial election campaign, scheduled for October 5.

In response to the PQ’s decision, Quebec Liberal Party Leader Charles Milliard criticized the delay, considering it indicative of a lack of strength in the separatist movement. He viewed the announcement as an attempt to manipulate public opinion, characterizing the PQ as indecisive. Meanwhile, Christine Fréchette, Premier of Quebec and leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec, criticized the timing of the referendum plan in light of escalating American tariffs on Canada, emphasizing the necessity of stability for Quebec.

Despite skepticism from opponents like Eric Duhaime, leader of the Conservative Party of Quebec, the Parti Québécois maintains a lead in the polls according to 338Canada, surpassing the Quebec Liberal Party and the Coalition Avenir Québec in voting intentions. This political landscape sets the stage for a competitive and dynamic election campaign in Quebec.