Former MP Pablo Rodriguez chosen as new leader of Quebec Liberal Party
The Quebec Liberal Party has selected former MP Pablo Rodriguez as their new leader, following a closely contested leadership race. Rodriguez emerged victorious over his opponent Charles Milliard in the second round of voting, garnering 52.3 per cent of the allocated points.
Addressing the crowd at the leadership convention in Quebec City, Rodriguez expressed gratitude towards interim leader Marc Tanguay for his stewardship during the transition period. He described his new role as the “honour of a lifetime” and emphasized the beginning of a new chapter for both the party and the province of Quebec.
With a voter turnout of 70 per cent among party members who participated in preferential balloting since Monday, the pressure was on the candidates to appeal to Quebec’s diverse regions and younger demographic. Votes were weighted based on riding and age, reflecting the party’s commitment to inclusivity and representation.
Quebec Premier François Legault extended his congratulations to Rodriguez on his victory, expressing eagerness to collaborate on issues important to Quebecers. He also bid farewell to Tanguay, acknowledging the spirited debates they had engaged in.
Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon also offered his congratulations to Rodriguez, underscoring the pivotal moment at which Quebec finds itself in terms of its linguistic, cultural, and economic future. He stressed the need for change and innovation to address the evolving needs of the province.
Rodriguez ran on a platform centered around party unity and increased efficiency to challenge the ruling Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) in the upcoming 2026 provincial election. The Liberal Party has faced consecutive defeats at the hands of the CAQ in recent years, struggling to connect with francophone voters outside of Montreal.
While the Parti Québécois has experienced a resurgence in popularity, despite holding a minority of seats in the provincial legislature, Rodriguez aims to revitalize the Liberal Party’s appeal and broaden its support base.
In the first round of the leadership race, Charles Milliard, a pharmacist and former head of the Quebec Federation of Chambers of Commerce, secured second place. Despite the loss, supporters like MNA André Fortin expressed optimism for the party’s future under Rodriguez’s leadership.
Former MNA Karl Blackburn, who narrowly missed out on advancing to the second round, highlighted the challenges ahead for the new leader in terms of party unification and regional outreach. Blackburn expressed a desire to reclaim his riding for the Liberals in the next election.
Rodriguez, a seasoned politician who served in various ministerial roles under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as party leader. His decision to transition to provincial politics reflects his commitment to shaping the future of Quebec.
The Quebec Liberal Party looks towards a new era under Rodriguez’s leadership, as they strive to regain momentum and position themselves as a formidable contender in the political landscape of Quebec.
