PQ’s Alex Boissonnecult wins the interim election of Arhabaska and beats the conservative leader of Quebec
The Parti Québécois achieved a significant victory on Monday in the by-election in Quebec, solidifying their momentum leading up to the 2026 provincial elections. Former journalist Alex Boissonneault emerged victorious, defeating the conservative leader of Quebec, Éric Duhaime, in the riding of Arthabaska. This victory marks the third consecutive win for the sovereigntist party, dealing a blow to Prime Minister François Legault’s government party.
Despite polls indicating a close race between Boissonneault and Duhaime, the PQ candidate secured over 46% of the votes compared to just over 35% for Duhaime. Boissonneault’s campaign focused on restoring a “broken social contract” in Quebec, where citizens feel they pay high taxes without receiving adequate benefits.
Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon hailed the victory as “very important,” noting that it was the party’s first win in the riding in 27 years. He emphasized that the win positions the party as a strong contender to challenge the CAQ and form a solid government in 2026.
Supporters of the Parti Québécois celebrated the victory with enthusiasm, waving Quebec flags and chanting slogans in support of Boissonneault and Quebec as a sovereign nation. St-Pierre Plamondon reiterated his commitment to holding a third independence referendum by 2030 if the party comes to power.
On the other hand, Duhaime, who had hoped to secure the party’s first legislative seat, expressed disappointment at the outcome. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the conservative party but vowed to redouble efforts leading up to the 2026 elections.
The defeat in Arthabaska was also a setback for the ruling Coalition Avenir Québec, which lost the riding it had held since 2012. Prime Minister François Legault took responsibility for the defeat, acknowledging voter dissatisfaction with his government’s performance. Despite this setback, Legault indicated his intention to seek re-election, citing the need for his experience in reforming Quebec’s economy.
The Quebec Liberals, under new leader Pablo Rodriguez, saw an increase in support, climbing to third place in the by-election. The election was triggered by the resignation of Coalition Avenir Québec member Éric Lefebvre, who successfully ran for the Conservative Party of Canada in the recent federal elections.
Overall, the Parti Québécois’ victory in Arthabaska signals a resurgence of support for the sovereigntist party and sets the stage for an exciting and competitive race in the upcoming 2026 provincial elections.
