PQ leader acknowledges U.S. concerns could affect Quebec referendum

Parti Québécois leader Paul St‑Pierre Plamondon said voters raised worries that U.S. policies could harm Quebec's economy, and he repeated his pledge to hold a referendum during a first PQ mandate if his party wins the provincial election expected this fall.

Paul St‑Pierre Plamondon spoke after a byelection win and said many voters told him now may not be the right time for a sovereignty referendum because of concerns about U.S. policies and economic effects. He also said the PQ remains committed to holding a referendum during a first mandate if the party forms government. Opposition parties criticized his remarks as introducing uncertainty ahead of the provincial vote. Key points: - Paul St‑Pierre Plamondon said voters expressed fear that U.S. policies could negatively affect Quebec's economy and that he understands those concerns. - He reiterated his promise to hold a referendum within a first PQ mandate if his party wins the provincial election expected this fall. - Opposition parties called his comments unclear and said the evolving position creates economic uncertainty; an Angus Reid poll cited in the report found 15% would definitely vote to leave and 11% would lean toward leaving if a referendum were held today. Summary: The leader's comments have prompted public debate and criticism about the timing of a potential sovereignty vote. The next major political milestone is the provincial election expected this fall, and the PQ has said a referendum would be held during a first mandate if it forms government.